Hiking with my Brother

Cherry Creek Falls

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 29 May 2012 17:13:00 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 3h 30m
Total Ascent: 300ft (150ft in; 150ft out)
Highest Point: 480ft
Total Distance: 5.5 miles
Location: N 47° 46.0500, W 121° 52.4713
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Easy

Idyllic pockets of nature, often tucked away and preserved on public lands, are sometimes overlooked in favor of expansive vistas and remote alpine lakes. We may forget that some of these areas are relatively close to urban areas and make excellent hiking destinations. Recently we had the chance to check out one such area when we headed out Marckworth State Forest to explore the Cherry Creek Valley and find Cherry Creek Falls.

Back in 1890, the Millet and McKay logging company began constructing a logging railroad to move timber out of the Cherry Creek Valley more quickly and efficiently. In 1904, the Cherry Creek Logging and Railway Company bought up Millet and McKay and expanded the railway lines up to a number of logging camps, including one situated near Cherry Creek Falls. Mergers in 1915 created the Cherry Valley Timber Company, but in 1916 F.E. Weyerhaeuser joined the board of directors, and the company was reorganized as the Cherry Valley Logging Company. Over the next decade logging in Cherry Valley began to wind down. In 1926, most of the remaining timberland was sold off, and the 1928 most of the logging equipment was sold to Weyerhaeuser. In 1948 the last of the company’s remaining land was sold and the Cherry Valley Logging Company was no more.

Marckworth State Forest was dedicated in 1967, named in honor of a recent Dean of the University of Washington School of Forestry. Once envisioned as an experimental forest much like Pack Forest, the area has instead grown to over 16,000 acres of working forest managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). However, because the DNR does not currently receive funding to maintain or manage the Forest, the agency has not yet come up with a public use plan, so public information about the area is minimal and there are no official maps.

The trickiest part of this hike is reaching your destination. With its long history of logging, the Forest is riddled with logging roads that can easily turn you around. To add the confusion, the DNR’s lack of funding for the Marckworth Forest means there are no signs to point you in the right direction. We recommend you print out our directions or download our route and bring along the GPS just in case you take a wrong turn.

From the parking area, find a road with a blue gate a few feet to the south. Follow this logging road over a bridge crossing Margaret Creek and past a spur branching off to the right. At a little under a mile you’ll reach a split in the road. Veer right and uphill and continue a short distance to another branch, where you’ll head right and downhill. Drop down to the end of the road and head left onto a short user trail some helpful folks carved through the brush to connect with another nearby logging road. Once you reach the road, continue straight for about a mile, crossing a number of small streams to reach Hannan Creek. As soon as you cross the creek, look for a trail leading down toward the water. There are a couple of trails here, in various states of use, but all lead to an overlook above Cheery Creek Falls and continue down to the base of the falls.

Because Cherry Creek Falls is a little under the radar for how close it is to Duvall and other nearby urban centers, don’t expect too much company during most of the year – except during the high summer when the falls become a popular swimming area. Once you get past the hassle of finding the falls, this is a very easy and accessible hike. The route is almost exclusively along logging roads, making a fairly level and smooth grade as you travel through a wide range of forest including everything from vine maples and alders to aging hemlock and Douglas fir. This makes it perfect for kids or first-time hikers, offering a little bit of backcountry feel that almost anyone can reach.

To get there, take SR 520 to its end in Redmond and continue on Avondale Road for a mile. Veer right onto Novelty Hill Road. Continue on Novelty Hill Road for about five miles to a T-intersection. Turn left onto Snoqualmie Valley Road and then almost immediately take a right onto 124th Street. After one mile, 124th meets up with the Carnation-Duvall Road (also known as SR 203). Turn left and head through downtown Duvall. As you’re about to leave town, veer right onto Cherry Creek Valley Road. Continue on Cherry Creek Valley Road for just over four miles to Mountain View Road. Turn left and immediately find a small parking area on the right side of the road. Park and find the gated trailhead a few feet to the south. -Nathan

Print Google Directions >>

View large versions of the photos

Lower South Fork Skokomish River Trail #873

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan) — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:26:12 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 4h
Total Ascent: 800ft (500ft in; 300ft out)
Highest Point: 900ft
Total Distance: 8.5 miles
Location: N 47° 26.5800, W 123° 23.4480
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Easy

Recently, we had a chance to return to the Olympic Peninsula to check out a popular hike that promised moderate elevation gain, old growth forests and the company of a river. The Lower South Fork Skokomish River Trail #873 managed to provide all this and more.

People have relied on the waters of the Skokomish for hundreds of years. A Salishan people known as the Twana Indians maintained at least nine permanent settlements along the river system. The largest of these village communities was the Skokomish, which means “big river people” or “people of the river” in Salish. Before settlers arrived around 1860, the Skokomish established a network of trails along the river to trade with the Quinault Indians to the east. As settlers slowly displaced the Skokomish Indians, they cut a wider and more permanent route to the Quinault to help move resources out of the river valley. In the 1950s, timber interests used this permanent route when clear-cutting large areas along the river. Today’s trail largely follows these old timber roads.

Although logging has been banned in the Olympic Nation Forest since the late 1980s, the river continues to feel the lingering effects of the clear-cuts. The Skokomish continues to be extremely flood-prone, most recently on December 3, 2007 when storm water caused the river to swell to more than twenty times its mean flow, discharging almost thirty thousand cubic feet per second. The flood destroyed Camp Comfort, an open section of riverbank that had been a stopping point for hikers of the Lower South Fork Skokomish Trail for generations.

The trail begins with a series of switchbacks, quickly climbing a few hundred feet past sword fern and salal before leveling out high above the river in a section of old growth firs. The wide, well-maintained trail breezes past trees hundreds of years old, and then abruptly descends back down to the riverside. From here, the trail becomes tame with only minor elevation changes and small creeks to tiptoe across. As you wander along, enjoy the sounds of the river and watch as the forest shifts easily between stands of maple and alder to hemlock and fir. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife, especially the herds of Olympic Elk that frequent the area.

There are a number of decent stopping points along the trail. Some like to call it a day at a bridge and waterfall a quarter-mile short of Camp Comfort. At almost exactly four miles, Camp Comfort was an ideal destination before it was washed away in 2007. Others like to get closer to the five-mile mark and turn around at a viewpoint at a river bend. We recommend aiming for Camp Comfort and clambering across the rocks and driftwood for a lunch by the river.

This popular hike has some of the best of the Olympics flora and fauna and is well worth a visit. Not surprisingly, the trail attracts hikers year-round as well as mountain bikers and equestrians, so expect a little company. The hike is approachable for hikers of every skill level, and while the initial 300ft hurdle might be a challenging for some youngsters, most of the route is a decent trek for kids. When we visited, large winter blowdowns made the hike a little more difficult, but we anticipate much of this will be cleared as summer gets into full swing.

To get there, take I-5 south to Olympia to Exit 104 toward Aberdeen and Port Angeles. Follow US 101 along Hood Canal just over 27 miles through Shelton to Skokomish Valley Road. Take a left and follow the road five and a half miles to Forest Service Road #23. Head right and continue a little over nine miles to Forest Service Road #2353. Turn right and cross over the South Fork Skokomish River in less than a mile. Turn left at the four-way intersection and find the trailhead within a few tenths of a mile. –Nathan

Print Google Directions >>
View large versions of the photos

Welldigger's Ass Snowshoe via Yodelin Ski Area

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Mon, 14 May 2012 09:38:24 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 3h 15m
Total Ascent: 1700ft
Highest Point: 5300ft
Total Distance: 4.0 miles
Location: N 47° 46.1580, W 121° 3.0180
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Moderate

We managed to work in a short snowshoe a few weeks ago, taking advantage of some decent weather to explore portions of the old Yodelin Ski Area near Stevens Pass. We were aiming for a lonely prominence above the Ski Area unofficially named Welldiggers Ass, where we had heard we could find some decent views. Although trail information was a little sparse, we plugged the coordinates into our GPS and headed out to see what we could find.

The Yodelin Ski Area opened for business on December 27, 1969. At the time, Yodelin boasted a three-story lodge, a single rope tow, and a 1,800-foot double chairlift. Owned by Nason Properties, the operation also worked to develop over 180 homesites into “Yodelin Village” across the highway from the ski area. During 1970, a number of lodges and cabins were built, and the venture appeared off to a good start. However, on January 24, 1971, a large avalanche crushed two cabins, killing four and hitting the resort with over $2,000,000 in legal claims. Despite continued warnings from the State of Washington of how avalanche-prone the area was, Nason Properties continued to develop and expand the Yodelin Ski Area. In 1972, an additional 1,600-foot chairlift was installed, but the expansion only helped the Ski Area to limp along for another few years. By 1976, the Stevens Pass Ski Area bought what remained of Yodelin, including a chairlift, which is still in operation as the Tye-Mill lift. The remaining lift was moved to Crystal Mountain where it serves as the Upper Cambell lift.

The trail begins from the old Yodelin parking lot, now usually referred to as the overflow lot for Stevens Pass. The route initially follows the remains of the roads used by the defunct ski area, before quickly switchbacking up the mountainside. You will quickly find expansive views of the surrounding landscape as you wind your way up Yodelin’s former slopes. Along the way, keep an eye out for another artifact of the area’s past: the concrete foundations that once supported the ski lifts still trace a route up the mountain.

Once you reach the ridgeline, steer east toward a burned out swath of forest to reach Welldiggers Ass. Slog your way up through a maze of bleach-white tree trunks and into the forest, pushing past the true summit to a viewpoint further east. The views are not stunning, but you should be able to pick out nearby Jim Hill Mountain, Arrowhead Mountain and the Chiwaukums. If you are thirsty for a little more distance, retrace your path and head to the flat-topped highpoint at the southern end of the ridge, known as Point 5023.

Short, sweet and easily accessible, this little snowshoe is perfect if you are short on time or want to add a couple extra miles to your day. As an added bonus, the slopes do not see a lot of foot traffic these days. Backcountry skiers occasionally make their way over from the Steven’s Pass Ski Area, but most do not make it all the way up to Welldiggers Ass, so expect a little solitude at the top.

To get there, take US 2 to Stevens Pass. Continue another mile and a half past the main ski area to an overflow parking lot on the right. Once parking for Yodelin, the Stevens Pass area now owns the lodge here. Park and find the route beginning behind the lodge. -Nathan

Print Google Directions >>

View large versions of the photos

Fairfax Ghost Town

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 20:07:08 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 2h 15m
Total Ascent: 100ft
Highest Point: 1400ft
Total Distance: 2 miles
Location: N 47° 0.7140, W 122° 0.9000
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Moderate

As winter begins to wane and the snow levels grudgingly recede, we’re really looking forward to getting back on some mountaintops. Until then, we’ve found ourselves alternating between snowshoeing and finding out-of-the-way places in the lowlands. We recently stuck to the lower elevations and explored the Fairfax townsite, another coal-boom ghost town along the Carbon River.

Like Franklin and nearby Melmont, Fairfax sprang up around rich coal deposits. Founded in 1892, it was named for Fairfax County, Virginia by W.E. Williams and platted in 1897 when the Northern Pacific Railway was extended from Carbonado out to Fairfax. The town quickly expanded, and by 1901, 60 coking ovens were producing 252,000 tons of furnace grade coal a month. The population of Fairfax grew with the rising demand for coal during World War 1, reaching 500 people by 1915. Access to the town was limited exclusively to railroad car until December 17, 1921, when the county extended the road over the Carbon River and into Fairfax.

However, over the next twenty years, the coal yields slow dropped along with demand, as the country shifted toward oil and gasoline for its energy needs. In 1941, Fairfax was a ghost town, many inhabitants having hastily abandoned their homes and property. During this time Pierce County began to foreclose on properties in and around Fairfax for failure to pay property taxes. The lands remained as county “surplus” until 2002, when 640 acres were set aside as open space for public use, including the townsite and 80 acres of original old growth. Over the years, floods, fires, and salvaging destroyed most of the abandoned structures, and the forest continues to aggressively reclaim the townsite. Still, after seventy years, you can find foundations, artifacts, and the long line of coking ovens.

The hike begins with a quick descent down toward the river, following the roadbed into town. Expect to navigate a little underbrush as you head down, as there is no formal trail maintenance happening in the area. Within a few minutes, you’ll be standing near the edge of the large meadow that was once Fairfax. From here, you can start exploring in any direction, or follow the loop we’ve put together. However, keep in mind that most of the structures are across the meadow to the north, including the swimming pool, the site of the old railroad bridge, and the coking ovens.

The easiest way to find most of these is to follow the faint impression of the main road through town, which cuts through the middle of the meadow. Keep an eye out for a large, artificial-looking hillock extending toward the river. A game trail here will lead you out to the river, and the cement foundation of the railroad bridge. Scramble up onto the embankment for a nice view of the Carbon River, as well as the rock jetty that was built to try and control flooding. Head back to the main road, and continue following it across the meadow and into the trees. The swimming pool foundation is just off to the right. From the foundation, head northwest toward a small stream. The coking ovens are tucked into the large mound on the other side of the water.

The most difficult part of this hike is finding it. There is almost nothing in the way of signage to indicate that you are in the right place. Eventually, after retracing our steps a few times, we found a small pullout that looked promising. Only then did we find the small laminated sign indicating that we were on the edge of Fairfax Forest. Beyond that, this is an easy walk through Washington’s mining history. However, while the hike is not strenuous, the area is undeveloped and some parts can be a little wet and muddy, so come prepared to get a little dirty. Fairfax is the largest ghost town we’ve visited, and there is much more to see than we’ve mentioned here. Consider exploring this section of the Carbon River Valley sometime soon.

To get there, take I-5 South to I-405. From I-405 take SR 167 south toward Auburn. In 20 miles take the SR 410 Exit toward Sumner/Yakima. Follow SR 410 for 12 miles to SR 165. Take a right and continue on SR 165 for about 10 miles through Carbonado to the Fairfax Bridge. Cross the bridge and continue on SR 165 for a half-mile. Veer left onto the Carbon River Road when the highway splits, and follow for just under two miles to a few large boulders on the left side of the road. There is a small pull out here. Park and follow the old roadbed down to the townsite. –Nathan

Print Google Directions >>

View large versions of the photos

Pack Forest - Little Mashel Falls & Hugo Peak

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:40:48 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 4h
Total Ascent: 1300ft
Highest Point: 1728ft
Total Distance: 7.5 miles
Location: N 46° 50.5560, W 122° 17.5080
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Moderate

This week we headed out to Pack Forest, an old favorite from our childhood. It had been years since we wandered along Pack Forest’s trails and we thought it would make for a decent winter hike. After doing a little research and plotting out a rough route, we packed up and headed out to Eatonville.

In the 1920s, Charles Lathrop Pack was one of the richest men in the United States. His wealth was built on timber and real estate, and in 1926, he gave the University of Washington College of Forest Resources enough cash to purchase 334 acres of forestland. The Charles L. Pack Experimental Forest was born. Today, Pack Forest has grown to a sprawling 4,300 acres, dedicated to forestry research, education, and recreation. With more than 50 miles of lowland trails, Pack Forest attracts hikers, bikers, equestrians, and hunters year-round.

Our first destination was Hugo Peak, the highest point in Pack Forest, named for a former dean of the College of Forestry, Hugo A. Winkenwerder. The Hugo Peak Trail begins at the Gatehouse and heads somewhat steeply up the mountainside. At just over 1700ft, Hugo Peak is not exactly imposing, but the rough and narrow trail is a little overgrown in places, making the ascent a little more challenging. The route cuts across a few trails and roads along the way, including the 1000 Road, a large loop open to vehicle traffic during the week. If you choose, you can cut out the lower section of the Hugo Peak Trail and just pick up the trail along the 1000 Road.

Near the top, the trail suddenly changes into Road 1081, and you are soon at a somewhat confusing intersection. Head uphill to find the small, grassy clearing that is Hugo Peak. Over the years, trees have grown to block out most of the view. Currently, the view is limited to a narrow opening in trees looking north toward the surrounding valleys. Take in the view, sign the summit register, and head back down to the intersection.

Our next destination was the waterfalls along the Little Mashel River, which are in the northern section of the park. To get there, just head downhill on Road 1080 toward Kirkland Pass, where most of the park’s major roads meet. If you have some extra time, take a short stroll through the Trail of the Giants, a walk through a section of Pack Forest’s old growth. From Kirkland Pass, the more direct route is to follow Road 1000 east to connect with Road 1070 and eventually the Falls Trail. However, if you are looking for more trail time, you can take the Reservoir Trail which heads north and eventually leads to Road 1000.

Whichever way you go, you will soon be walking down Road 1070 to the Falls Trail, which leads down into a canyon carved by the Little Mashel River. There are three waterfalls to see: starting with Tom Tom Falls, then Little Mashel Falls (often referred to as Bridal Veil Falls), and finally Lower Little Mashel Falls. The Falls Trail skips Tom Tom Falls, though you can catch glimpses of it by wandering a bit offtrail. The wide path quickly descends toward the river, with side trails branching off for views of the falls.

Follow the first branch for Little Mashel Falls, the largest of the three waterfalls. You’ll have a choice between exploring the upper falls or the lower, we recommend you start with the upper, which takes you to the wide, flat rocks above the falls. This is the perfect place to settle down for lunch or a snack. If you prefer a closer look at Little Mashel Falls, take the steep trail down to the river. The trail can be very slippery, so use caution as you approach the falls. During the summer when the river flow is a little lighter, you can easily climb over the rocks and walk behind the falls. Again, the rocks are often slick, so be careful when clambering around beneath the waterfall.

To reach the final waterfall, Lower Little Mashel Falls, head back to the main Falls Trail and continue downward to the next branch. This trail is very overgrown, rough, and often muddy. Expect to be climbing over blowdowns and fallen logs. The trail ends in an overlook of the multi-tiered Lower Mashel Falls, which are easily worth the extra effort to see them. After you’ve had your fill, head back out to Road 1000 and follow it back to the Gatehouse.

Pack Forest is always open, and almost always free of snow in the winter. While some of the trails can be a little challenging, forest roads can take a hiker nearly anywhere in the park. With minimal elevation gain and easy access, this is a great pick for winter walks, hiking with youngsters or bringing out the dog for an adventure. We suggest that you bring along a map, as the multiple roads and trails can be confusing, and maps are not always available from the Gatehouse in the winter. If you make it out to Pack Forest, we highly recommend you take the time to head out to the waterfalls, which are well worth the trip.

To get there, take I-5 South to Tacoma, taking Exit 127 for Highway 512. In about two miles, take the State Route 7 exit toward Spanaway. Continue on SR 7 for roughly 22 miles to the signed entrance to the University of Washington Pack Forest on the left. -Nathan

Print Google Directions >>

View large versions of the photos

Glacier Vista Snowshoe at Paradise Mt. Rainier

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 23:01:47 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 1h 20m
Total Ascent: 900ft
Highest Point: 6400ft
Total Distance: 2.5 miles
Location: N 46° 48.0960, W 121° 44.0880
Required Permit: National Park Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

On a sunny weekend a few weeks ago, we packed up our snowshoes and headed out with a few destinations in mind. After some discussion, we decided to indulge our nostalgia and drive the extra distance to visit Paradise on the slopes of Mt. Rainier. It was from the parking lots around Paradise that we began our assent to the summit back in 2008, and we had not been back since. We were long overdue.

In 1885, a member of the Longmire family visited a flower-covered valley on a sunny day, and christened it Paradise. While there is some debate as to whether it was Virinda or Martha Longmire who came up with the name, no one is arguing its accuracy: the allure of Paradise has drawn millions of people to the area over the years. Reliable roads did not reach the area until 1915, but commerce quickly followed and in July 1917, the Paradise Inn was opened. Independently operated until it was sold to the Park Service in 1952, the Inn has welcomed guests nearly every year since it opened. In 1966 the Paradise Visitor Center was opened and later renamed in 1987 for Senator Henry M. Jackson to honor his efforts to support Rainier National Park. If you haven’t been to Paradise in a few years, you’ll find a new Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center to greet you, which opened in 2008. The original “sunken Space Needle” building was demolished in 2009.

Glacier Vista is a treat in both the summer and the winter. It is an easy hike during the summer months, following the Skyline Trail through alpine meadows brimming with wildflowers, past pines and hemlocks dwarfed by the altitude. In the winter, the snowshoe route is a little more challenging. Some of the challenge comes from the added effort, but route finding can also be an issue. On the upside, if you’re there on a low avalanche danger day, it will be easy to find a route already cut through the powder. If you’re breaking trail, start to the west of the sledding area, heading upwards toward the tree-covered rise known as Alta Vista. We recommend you bear to the left around the knoll as it is less difficult, but either approach will get you there. Continue to parallel the Nisqually Glacier for about a mile-and-a-half to a broad flat area. This is Glacier Vista.

From this vantage point you can take in the massive Nisqually Glacier as well as the Nisqually Valley spreading out below. Rising above the parking lot to the south, a jagged ridgeline marks the beginning of the Tatoosh range, with prominences including Pinnacle Peak, Castle Peak, and Plummer Peak. Beyond, you can pick out the snow-topped Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens. If you’re feeling like stretching your legs more, continue to follow the Skyline trail up to Panorama Point, to get a better view of the landscape.

Paradise is the perfect destination for exploring with youngsters or test driving that new pair of snowshoes. Many of the trails are paved, making the lower trail network friendly to strollers and wheelchairs in the summer months. Of course, expect a lot of company when visiting Paradise, though the traffic quickly dwindles as you head uphill and out to Glacier Vista or Panorama Point. If you’ve never been up to Paradise, we highly recommend you make the trip this year. One word of caution if you’re planning a winter visit – make sure to check the avalanche danger and keep an eye on the weather, which can change extremely quickly.

To get there, take I-5 South to Tacoma, taking Exit 127 for Highway 512. In about two miles, take the State Route 7 exit toward Spanaway. Continue on SR 7 for about 30 miles to the junction with SR 706 in Elbe. Keep to the left and follow SR 706 a little under 15 miles to the park entrance. From the gate, it is another 14 miles to the Paradise parking area. - Nathan

Print Google Directions >>

View large versions of the photos

Franklin Ghost Town & Cemetery

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Mon, 28 May 2012 16:55:52 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 1h 30m
Total Ascent: 300ft
Highest Point: 800ft
Total Distance: 2.5 miles
Location: N 47° 17.5980, W 121° 58.0860
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Easy

Continuing this winter’s theme of visiting ghost towns and abandoned places, we recently explored the Franklin Townsite near Black Diamond. Like many former mining communities in Washington, much of the once-bustling town is now gone, much of it reclaimed by nature. Still, enough cement and metal remains to hint at the coal-centered community that called Franklin home for more than 30 years.

Sometime in the late 1880s, those that were mining coal in Black Diamond branched out to the Green River and began work in the hills around Franklin. Connected by railroad to the rest of the world in 1885, the post office soon followed in 1886. Labor disputes intensified in May 1891, when hundreds of African-American miners were recruited from the Midwest to replace striking white miners. Unfortunately, the new arrivals were not told about the strike, and upon arrival were issued a firearm supposedly as a defense against local Native Americans. Tensions quickly mounted and two died in the resulting riot, which was only quelled in July when Governor Elisha Ferry called in the National Guard.

In 1894, Franklin was rocked by the second worst mining disaster in Washington’s history. Thirty-seven miners suffocated when a coal fire broke in the mine. Miscommunication and poor management led first to the shutdown of the fan that supplied air to the miners, then to opening doors that changed the airflow in the mineshaft. This trapped the coal smoke 1000ft below the surface and killed the miners. Later, evidence surfaced that the fire was intentionally set, though the arsonist was among those that perished. At the turn of the century as oil continued to replace coal, demand fell and families began to leave Franklin. The post office closed in 1916 and mining largely ceased by 1919. World War II created enough demand for coal that the Palmer Coking Company sporadically mined around Franklin from the late 1940s until 1971 when the coal car bridge spanning the Green River was dynamited and removed. Today, the Black Diamond Historical Society leads tours of Franklin, and cleanup efforts by local school and scout troops keep the area accessible.

The trickiest part of a trek to Franklin is finding it. Although the Franklin Townsite is owned by King County Parks, there is no motorized access and there is not much in the way of parking. Access is located just before you cross the Green River Gorge Bridge, marked by chain-link gate covered in No Parking Signs. There is room for one vehicle on the opposite side of the road a little closer to the bridge. If that is taken, most people drive down to a little cemetery a quarter-mile or so back toward Black Diamond. Once you’re parked, head back to the chain-link fence, you can see a yellow gate in the distance, which is the beginning of King County Park Property. The property in between is private, but King County has an easement along the road, so just stick to the gravel road and head toward the gate.

Things are easy once on the trail. Head up to a signed junction complete with an ore cart donated by the Palmer Coking Company. Veer left for the mine and cemetery. While there are some foundations on the right, you need permission from Palmer before doing much in the way of exploring on their land.

Brush past sword fern and salal as you follow the road up to the mineshaft. Dropping 1300ft into the ground, the shaft was popular amongst spelunkers and other explorers, but after a couple of accidents, the state sealed the shaft in the 80s. After you’ve taken a moment to drop a few rocks down the pit, move on toward the cemetery. The trail is a little rougher here and not quite as wide, but it is still an easy stroll to the ivy-covered cemetery. Along the way, you’ll pass a section of rusting trestle that once supported the eight-inch wooden pipe that supplied water to the town. Without much warning, you will suddenly notice a few marble tombstones rising out of the brush. Take a moment to explore and reflect on the community that once thrived here.

Franklin is a fun little adventure on those days that you cannot make it out to the mountains. While it is not exactly a traditional hike, it is a walk steeped in the history of this state. Its obscurity and somewhat confusing access makes it likely that you’ll have the ghost town to yourself and lends a feeling of remoteness. There is also much more to explore in Franklin – it’s possible to head down to the site of the coal bridge or get permission from Palmer to hike to the top of Franklin Hill. A day spent tromping around Franklin is well worth the trip.

To get there, take I-5 South to 405. Take Exit 4 off 405 onto SR 169. Follow SR 169 for 18 miles into Black Diamond to Lawson St. Take a left and follow Lawson as it changes into Green River Gorge Road. About three-and-a-half miles from Black Diamond as the road bends toward the Green River Gorge Bridge, find a chain-link gate on the right. This is the access point. Find parking on the roadside or at the nearby cemetery. -Nathan

Print Google Directions >>

View large versions of the photos

Skookum Falls via Skookum Flats Trail #1194

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 19:23:30 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h 15m
Total Ascent: 400ft
Highest Point: 2500ft
Total Distance: 5 miles
Location: N 47° 3.0240, W 121° 34.5540
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Easy

Over the years, we’ve driven down Highway 410 many, many times. On almost all of these excursions, we pass the little roadside pullout perched on the banks of the White River. Invariably, the viewpoint is populated with a few parked cars and some curious travelers craning to get a good look at Skookum Falls as it tumbles 250ft over a cliff and down toward the river. Recently, we decided it was time to stop passing the waterfall by and finally went to get a closer look, along the Skookum Flats Trail #1194.

“Skookum” is a popular adjective in Chinook Jargon. It can mean many different things depending on the context, though it is usually positive. Associated with strength and power, it is likely that the waterfall was named for its height and impressive flow during the annual snowmelt. For veterans of this trail, the suspension bridge that once connected Skookum Flats to the Buck Creek Trail #1169 is still out. The Forest Service has yet to replace the bridge since it was destroyed by a storm in the winter of 2006.

The route meanders alongside the White River on its way to Skookum Creek. As the name suggests, Skookum Flats involves little in the way of elevation gain, instead it takes a hiker on a gentle tour beneath looming Douglas fir, past mossy rocks and fallen trees, while providing ample opportunity to take in the river and the Snoquera Palisades. The popular trail is wide and flat, free of rocks and roots. Its popularity also ensures that windfalls and debris felled by the storms that frequent the area are quickly removed.

At about the two-mile mark, the sound of rushing water begins to overpower the noise of the river. Catch glimpses of falling water through the leaves as you approach Skookum Creek. Just across the water, a sign points uphill with the simple word “Falls.” The bootpath up to the base of the Skookum Falls is rough and spray from the falls can make the path slick. Use caution if you choose to get a closer look. If you’re craving some more distance, you can continue on another two miles to the end of the trail and the site of the bridge washout.

The low elevation of this trail makes it an ideal hike in the winter when other trails are buried under the snow. However, if you want to see the waterfall flowing in full force, you’re better off coming in the late spring during the melt. Of course, the ease of this trail makes it a good choice for young hikers as well as trail running. If you’re heading out to Skookum Flats, keep in mind the trail also very popular with mountain bikers, so be ready to share the trail during the summer.

To get there, take I-5 south to Highway 18 Exit 142A. Follow Highway 18 into Auburn and take the SR 164 exit. Head left on SR 164 through Enumclaw to SR 410. Head left onto SR 410 for 25 miles to Huckleberry Creek Road (FR 73). Turn right onto FR 73 and follow for a half-mile to the trailhead on the left just beyond the bridge. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Melmont Ghost Town

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:16:58 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h
Total Ascent: 100ft
Highest Point: 1360ft
Total Distance: 2.0 miles
Location: N 47° 1.8360, W 122° 1.9980
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Easy

As we continue hiking Washington’s mountains and forests, we often find ourselves running into pieces of the past. The state is riddled with crumbling buildings, abandoned towns, and former railroad hubs. Recently, we decided adding a few more ghost towns to the blog would be fun and so we packed up and headed out to the town of Melmont to see what we could find.

Melmont was founded in 1900 around the Melmont Coal Mine, producing coal exclusively for the Northern Pacific Railway. For a few years, the small town boomed, boasting a train depot, hotel, post office and schoolhouse. Although the mine yielded upwards of 750 tons of coal per day, when the railroad shifted away from coal-driven trains to more modern diesel models, the town crumbled. By 1915 the post office was shuttered, and by 1920 the mines were largely closed. A forest fire cleared out all but a few cement foundations around the same time. In 1921, the Fairfax Bridge opened above the Carbon River, bypassing Melmont’s railroad bridge and connecting Fairfax to the state highway system. When it opened, the Fairfax Bridge was the tallest in Washington, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

The trail begins on the north side of the bridge with a short scramble down to the Northern Pacific’s railroad grade. From here, Melmont is an easy one-mile stroll upstream, following a wide path under mossy alders and young hemlock. However, because ATV traffic churns up a lot of earth, during the wetter months a thick layer of mud can cover the trail. Although the mud can be a little messy, it is not so bad that it will make your hike more difficult.

Shortly after you leave the bridge behind, you’ll pass a large rock retaining wall followed quickly by a structure most refer to as the “Dynamite Shack.” As you push onward, the trail splits just above an open field that was once the residential area of town. Heading uphill will lead to the crumbling foundation of one of Melmont’s schoolhouses, while pushing onward will lead to the site of the hotel and the remains of Melmont’s bridge. Either way you choose, enjoy wandering the area and finding traces of the 100-year-old town.

If you’re looking for a short stroll through Washington’s history, Melmont is a good choice. Other than the short drop down to the railroad grade, which could be tricky for some very young hikers, the trip out to the town site is very easy. At the same time, there is not much in the way of serious hiking. You can extend your hike a bit to push down to the river, but other than that, we are not sure there is much more to see. We recommend this hike for those interested in ghost towns or those looking for a quick winter adventure.

To get there, take I-5 South to I-405. From I-405 take SR 167 south toward Auburn. In 20 miles take the SR 410 Exit toward Sumner/Yakima. Follow SR 410 for 12 miles to SR 165. Take a right and continue on SR 165 for about 10 miles through Carbonado to the Fairfax Bridge. A small gravel turnout on the far side of the bridge provides parking. Hike back across the bridge and head toward the rock wall. Hop the guardrail to find a rough path down to the railroad grade. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Green Mountain - Kitsap Peninsula - Gold Creek Trailhead

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:55:05 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h
Total Ascent: 1000ft
Highest Point: 1680ft
Total Distance: 5.0 miles
Location: N 47° 33.7860, W 122° 48.4620
Required Permit: Discover Pass
Difficulty: Easy

As we continue down a new trail each week, we often find ourselves going further and further east. To change things up a bit, we looked west across the Sound to see if there were any day hikes within easy reach. We quickly found Green Mountain State Forest tucked just outside of Bremerton.

Green Mountain State Forest boasts a 13-mile network of multiuse trails attracting over 50,000 hikers, bikers, campers and equestrians annually. However, it is a “working forest” managed by Washington’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Like most of the land under DNR management there is often some sort of resource extraction going on, most commonly timber harvesting. Fortunately, the area encompasses nearly 6,000 acres, making it unlikely that you’ll run into active logging, though the DNR will occasionally close sections of trail to the public while work is being done.

We began from the Gold Creek Trailhead following the Gold Creek Trail toward the summit of Green Mountain, hoping for some good views. The short trek down wide, well-maintained trails took us through a young forest full of the rhododendron we so often see on this side of the Sound. As we neared the top, we took a moment to look down on Lake Tahuya through a break in the trees. Noticing what seemed like a more direct route following some power lines up the mountainside, we couldn't resist a little adventure. One word of caution, however: we’re not sure if the lines are still electrified, but they are very close to the ground in places, so watch your step.

Once you’ve reached the vista, take some time to look around for various breaks in the trees. Depending on which directions you're looking, a sea of trees stretches toward nearby Gold Mountain, Hood Canal, and the skyscrapers of Seattle. Further afar, snowcapped Olympics line the western horizon. After you’ve gotten your fill of views, you have some options. If you’re still yearning to stretch your legs, you can extend your hike, heading out to Green Mountain Horse Camp or exploring the popular Beaver Pond Trail. Or if that's too much, you can also add a little more mileage by returning to the trailhead via the Plummer Trail.

Green Mountain State Forest is a great place to explore if you like Mt. Si and Tiger Mountain but are looking for a change of scenery. The elevation gains are modest and approachable for nearly every hiker. And, while there is certainly some motorized traffic in the form of motorcycles and ATVs, much of that activity is concentrated on the Wildcat side of the forest. It’s close and fairly accessible, making this a good choice for younger hikers.

To get to the Gold Creek Trailhead, take the Bremerton ferry to Bremerton. From the terminal, follow Kitsap Way for three miles. Bear left on Northlake Way for a little over a mile to Seabeck Highway. Veer left and continue for three miles to Holly Road. Turn left and follow Holly Road a little over four miles to Tahuya Lake Road. Again turn left, and continue for a little over a mile to Gold Creek Road. Veer left and find the Gold Creek Trailhead on the left in two miles. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Motorola P793 Power Pack Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:05:18 PST

Ever wish you had a little more juice to power your constellation App? Ever finished a hike and found your GPS tracks stopped recording? We know the feeling. As technology continues to change the way we explore the outdoors, the need to pack a little extra power has grown. And the folks at AT&T are already working on the next solution. Recently, they asked us to test out their new backup battery and sent along two extra units to giveaway to our readers!

Motorola P793 Portable Power Pack

The Motorola P793 Universal Portable Power Pack is a great little accessory for those who want backup power for their electronic devices. The power pack is equipped with a short microUSB cable designed work with a variety of cellphones. Even better, any device that charges via USB can be powered by the P793, if you bring along the cable.

What makes this particular device appealing to us is that it's small and light. It's slightly smaller than an iPhone and it weighs only 2.5 ounces making it a guilt-free addition to an overnight pack. Although it's not waterproof, the case is durable and easily survived multiple drop tests on rocky terrain. Another little bonus about the P793 is that its built using 25% post-consumer recycled plastic. It's also certified CarbonFree® by Carbonfund.org, which means Motorola offset the energy used in manufacturing by investing in sustainable energy projects.

How much power the Motorola P793 Backup Battery can provide all depends on what you want to charge. The manufacturer says it can add up to 5 hours of talk time, but it's a bit vague on what type of device. So as a worst case test, we tried charging our power hungry Samsung Inspire smartphone. With the Inspire turned off, it added 60% charge to a dead battery. If you're interested in the Motorola P793, it retails for $40 and is available in most AT&T stores as well as online.

If you'd like to win one of these devices and be prepared for the next snowmageddon power outage, just sign up to our email list. Remember to verify your email address by following the link in the activation email. If you're already signed up to receive email from us, then you're already signed up to win! Two winners will be announced this week on our Facebook Page. Congratulations to Tina from Issaquah and Ty from Maple Valley for winning P793s! -Jer

Skyline Lake and Ridge Snowshoe

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:53:01 PST

Our Hiking Time: 3h 15m
Total Ascent: 1400ft
Highest Point: 5400ft
Total Distance: 3 miles
Location: N 47° 45.4080, W 121° 6.2100
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Moderate

Recently we had the chance to pack up our snowshoes and head out on Highway 2 toward Stevens Pass to explore the Skyline Ridge Trail. We’re right in the middle of an excellent snowshoe season, and we try to take advantage of it whenever the weather will allow us to wander under snow-laden trees toward sun-sparkling vistas. And it looks like the snow is going to continue to be good, as the state’s recent “snowpocalypse” has laid down a thick new layer of powder to tromp through.

Skyline Ridge is one of the unofficial names for the long, rocky, U-shaped ridge opposite the Steven’s Pass Ski Area that serves as the boundary between Chelan and King County. The name probably refers to Skyline Lake, a small lakelet tucked under the eastern base of the ridge. Then again, although labeled “Skyline” on many maps, the lake is sometimes referred to as Dozer Lake. The ridge is also known to some as Heather Ridge, perhaps in reference to the abundance of the plant in the area. To further add to the naming confusion, the 5482ft high point of the ridge is known simply as Sky Mountain, though most snowshoers do not go further than the jagged 5400ft prominence we stopped at.

The trail begins in the ski area parking lot, following a gravel service road up the mountainside. During the winter, this road is often groomed or otherwise cleared. Follow the road past ski huts and under electrical wires for about a quarter-mile to a green Washington Department of Transportation building. From here, you have a choice – you can continue to follow the road as it slowly switchbacks up the mountain, or you can head straight uphill and cut a lot of distance. This approach also has some great views and gets you into the trees before connecting with the road just below the ridgeline. From here, veer south toward nearby Skyline Lake and the rocky pinnacle rising above it.

If you’re hungry for views, continue around the lake and push up another 300ft through boulder-strewn forest to get them. To the north, Glacier Peak rises above closer Tye Peak, Lichtenburg Mountain and Union Peak. As you turn toward the east, pick out Mt. Howard, Rock Mountain, Mt. Mastiff and nearby Big Chief Mountain. Continue to turn clockwise to find Mt. Daniel, Mt. Hinman, Big Chiwaukum, and finally Cowboy Mountain directly across the valley. To the west, Windy Mountain stands closeby. Want more? You can continue to follow the ridgeline for another mile to reach the Sky Mountain highpoint.

This short snowshoe packs a lot into just a few miles. We definitely recommend taking the more direct route when snowshoeing, as it gets you to the views faster and is a lot more rewarding than trudging up a service road. This is an understandably popular destination in the winter, so expect a little company. Although there is some elevation gain involved, the different approaches mean that you can easily tailor this snowshoe so that even a first-timer will be able to make the lake, while the expert can explore the more challenging sections.

A word of caution when snowshoeing this area: stick to the western end of the ridge and avoid the southern slopes – there have been multiple avalanche fatalities there over the years. And, when you reach the lake, stick to the shores and resist the temptation to march across the frozen surface. It’s impossible to tell if the ice has started to melt or is otherwise weak.

To get there, take Highway 2 to the Stevens Pass Ski Area. Find parking in the lots on the north side of the highway. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Lord Hill Regional Park

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:45:00 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h
Total Ascent: 800ft
Highest Point: 650ft
Total Distance: 5.5 miles
Location: N 47° 50.8440, W 122° 2.9760
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Easy

Recently, we found some time to visit Lord Hill Regional Park, a 1,300-acre park in Snohomish County. With over 11 miles of walking trails so close to the city, we took a little tour to see what the park had to offer.

Lord Hill Regional Park covers most of an 800-foot volcanic ridge overlooking the Snohomish River. The prominence was named for Mitchell Lord, a farmer and dairyman who came to the Washington Territory and bought up acreage on the hill in 1879. By 1884 Lord had expanded his holdings and was raising livestock and farming 100 acres on the hill. Logging interests cut down the last of the old growth on Lord Hill by the middle of the 1930s, and large portions of the hill passed into the control of Washington’s Department of Natural Resources. In the 1980s, sections of the hill were again logged before the state conveyed the land to Snohomish County years later. In October of 1995, after building and expanding a few miles of trails, the county officially opened Lord Hill Regional Park. Since that time Lord Hill’s trail network has continued to expand and today supports a variety of users including runners, hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

Lord Hill’s trails vary from wide roads that are occasionally used by park officials, to small, brush-lined paths to secluded lakeshores. Wander through a mixed forest of alder and maple interlaced with fir and hemlock as you explore trails leading to eight ponds and lakes as well as the riverside. The park provides decent views of both the Cascades and the Olympics on a good day, and shelters a variety of wildlife – everything from beavers to bobcats have been seen within the park’s boundaries. Routes within the park also loop together and make it easy to customize your wanderings, though not every junction is signed, making it is a good idea to bring along a map to minimize any confusion.

The park is a decent hiking destination during the winter. It’s close and easily accessible, but still large enough to feel like you’re getting out into nature. During warmer weather, this is a great place for youngsters to get out into the woods for the day, but be prepared to share the mixed use trails with mountain bikers and equestrians. All in all, it’s worth an afternoon to trek out to explore Snohomish County’s largest park.

To get there, take SR 522 north toward Monroe. Take the Monroe W Main Street exit and circle around the roundabout to head west on 164th Street. Follow this road for about three-and-a-half miles as it changes from 164th to the Old Snohomish-Monroe Highway to 127th Ave SE. Turn left and continue for a mile-and-a-half to 150th St SE. Take a right and find parking at the end of the road. –Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Pinnacle Peak aka Mt. Peak aka Mt. Pete Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:38:34 PST

Our Hiking Time: 1h
Total Ascent: 1000ft
Highest Point: 1800ft
Total Distance: 2 miles
Location: N 47° 10.4220, W 121° 58.4040
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Easy

Time is often short around the holidays. It can be tricky to wedge a hike between visits to family and friends. We managed to find enough time to climb to the top of an old favorite, just outside of Enumclaw. Although we first knew the small summit as Mount Pete, it’s also known as Mount Peak, Pinnacle Peak, and most recently the Cal Magnusson Trail. No matter which name you prefer, this short-but-steep hike is perfect for a quick winter workout.

While Pinnacle Peak is the official name of the 256-acre King County Park that encompasses the small mountain, there is some confusion over the “real” name of the peak. The Harvey Manning school advocates for Mount Pete, named after Pete Chorak, a Yugoslav émigré and businessman who settled in Enumclaw in 1911. Chorak donated land for a park, and founded the town pool; Pete’s Pool, which later became the city’s stadium. At some point, locals began referring to the mountain as Mount Peak. Our research did not dig up a reason for this switch, though one theory is that “Pete” sounds a lot like “Peak,” suggesting that the latter could have just been born in conversation. When King County bought the first sections of the mountain in the 1980s, the name Pinnacle Peak seems to have risen in prominence, though the fire lookout that stood there from 1928-1971 is always referred to as the Pinnacle Peak Lookout. In 2009, the trail to the summit was dedicated to Cal Magnusson, a Cascade climbing legend, who began maintaining the trail in 1975.

The trail begins steeply from the trailhead, switchbacking up the mountainside, through alder, cedar, and hemlock. From the outset, the plethora of trailside projects hints at the popularity of the trail. Platforms, benches, stairs, railings, nature signs are all here, maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers. Through their efforts the trail is wide, clear of brush, and easy to navigate.

The trail wastes little time in pushing you toward the summit. After a mile, the trail meets up with a logging road. Head left and continue upward, keeping an eye out for geologic evidence of the mountain’s volcanic past. Near the top you’ll notice exposed honeycombs of basalt, horizontal columns of rock protruding from the mountainside. Continue beyond these formations for the summit and the crumbling cement lookout foundation. Although there are some benches here for a rest and a snack, there is very little in the way of views, as trees have long since blocked the views. However, on good days Mt. Rainier can be spied from a small pocket viewpoint just below the summit, roughly where the road ends.

Close and easily accessible, this is a great winter hike or works perfectly as a last minute escape to the outdoors. However, expect a lot of company on this short hike. Hikers young and old tackle this trail everyday, trail runners are common, mountain bikers frequent the south side of the mountain, even local police and firefighters incorporate the route into their training regimen. So many visitors can’t be wrong. If you haven’t made it out to Pinnacle Peak, put this on the list for your first hike of 2012.

To get there, take I-5 south to Highway 18 Exit 142A. Follow Highway 18 into Auburn and take the SR 164 exit. Head left on SR 164 through Enumclaw to SR 410. Follow SR 410 for just under a mile to 284th Street. Take a right and follow 284th for a mile and a half to 472nd Street. The Cal Magnusson Trailhead is a half-mile ahead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Old Sauk River Trail #728

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:34:15 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h 30m
Total Ascent: 100ft
Highest Point: 800ft
Total Distance: 6 miles
Location: N 47° 12.9060, W 121° 33.5760
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Easy

Each year as the temperatures drop and the weather becomes less enticing, we start to search out hikes that are a bit more “winter friendly.” With this in mind, we recently headed up to the Darrington area for a short riverside hike along the Old Sauk Trail. Easily accessible and almost entirely flat, the trail seemed ideal for a short hike during the winter months.

While short, the Old Sauk Trail wanders through land thick with history. The Sauk-Suiattle Tribe spent generations plying the Sauk, Suiattle, Cascade, Stillaguamish, and Skagit Rivers before signing a treaty with the United States government in 1855. In 1867 settlers surveyed Darrington and nearby parcels and the 1889 discovery of gold at Monte Cristo drew more settlers to the rapidly developing area. Parts of the Old Sauk Trail follow the route of the wagon road that connected Darrington to Monte Cristo. As time passed and settlement expanded, the Sauk-Suiattle were pushed out. By 1924 the tribe had shrunk to 18 members. Ultimately, however, the tribe managed to rebound, reorganizing and attaining federal tribal recognition in 1973. Today, a small reservation just outside Darrington is home to a handful of the tribe’s 200 members.

From the gravel parking lot, the trail quickly cuts toward the Sauk River. Wander through a mixed forest of evergreens and maples nestled beneath looming old-growth firs, thankfully skipped over when the area was last logged in the 1930s. Once you reach the river, keep an eye out for wildlife. It’s not uncommon to encounter a few of the many animals attracted to the river. The trailside is thick with moss, berry bushes, and views of the river. Depending on the time of year, there will be something to pause and take a closer look at – whether it’s blooming flowers, a handful of huckleberries or a bald eagle sighting.

While the trail is ideal for hikers of all ages, it does not have the big reward of broad vistas or a remote alpine lake. Instead, the Old Sauk Trail is a chance to slow down, take a closer look at the landscape, and enjoy the sounds of the rushing Sauk River. With almost no elevation to speak of and year-round access, this trail is a great little escape during the winter or a last minute walk with the family during the summer months.

We did not run into anyone along this trail, but that may change because the Washington Trail Association has been doing a lot of work on the Old Sauk Trail, updating the main trailhead and repairing trail damage from recent floods. Work is also being done to create a trailhead roughly half-way between the two ends of the current trail. Already a new trail is in the process of being cut from the Mountain Loop Highway to the river. Increased access should mean that the Old Sauk Trail will see more use in the future.

To get there, take I-5 north to Exit 208 and drive east on SR 530 to Darrington. Follow the signs to the Mountain Loop Highway, heading south out of town. After four miles, find the signed Old Sauk River trailhead on your left. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Holiday Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:36:57 PST

Happy Holidays from hikingwithmybrother.com! Check out the great stuff that we'll be giving away during the rest of December. A winner for each item will randomly be chosen from our email subscribers. To sign up to win, simply complete the email subscription process. Remember to verify your email address by following the link in the activation email. If you're already signed up to receive email from us, then you're already signed up to win! Winners will be announced on our Facebook Page throughout the month. -Jer

Skyline 8.0 Backpack
Winner: Milane, Lake Stevens, WA

Soto Pocket Torch (x1)
Winner: Ryan, Shoreline, WA

Soto OD-1R Stove
Winner: Scotty, Mount Vernon, WA

WA/OR PCT Reader
Winner: Maggie, Seattle, WA
Winner: Brett, Austin, TX
Winner: Tina, Mukilteo, WA

CA PCT Reader
Winner: Tori, Bothell, WA
Winner: Elle, Auburn, WA
Winner: Tina, Federal Way, WA


2012 Hiking Calendar Winner: Chris, Everett, WA Winner: Ashley, Snohomish, WA Winner: Dylan, Snoqualmie, WA

The Pacific Crest Trailside Reader Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:37:21 PST

Like many hikers on the west coast, we've put in our share of miles on the the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. On hikingwithmybrother.com we've had the chance to write about a few of the PCT's treasures, such as Kendall Katwalk, Silver Peak, and Mirror Lake. So when we were contacted by the Mountaineers about reviewing a new anthology created to benefit the work of the Pacific Crest Trail Association, it was an opportunity we couldn't pass up.

The Pacific Crest Trailside Reader is a two volume collection of the written works of historians, hikers, and trail shepherds, spanning all 2600 miles of trail from Mexico to Monument 78 at the Canadian border. Editors Rees Hughes and Corey Lee Lewis seamlessly piece together historical accounts, trail lore, and first-hand hiker experiences into an engaging anthology. Each of the 95 excerpts are perfect for fireside storytelling or armchair adventuring. Within the pages, the human experience and deeper meaning of the PCT will resonate with the thru-hiker and aspiring outdoorsman alike.

There are plenty of tales for us to relate to in the Pacific Crest Trailside Reader, but our favorites are invariably those that involve trails we've explored.

One comes from Two on the Trail: A Thousand Miles on the PCT, by Ann Marshall. Ann and her husband Lee humorously detail their misery as they hike from Waptus Lake to Catherdral Rock in a classic Alpine Lake Wilderness downpour. For us, getting so wet you're beyond caring, turns into a game of who of can be the most ridiculous just to stay in good spirits. Stomping around madly in a creek in order to see the bottom rings a bell. Continuing on to Deception Pass, Ann and Lee get dead-ended at the notorious Mt. Daniel run-off crossing. They end up have to backtrack around the other side of Hyas Lake before continuing on the PCT. In 2005, I recall eating a lunch of instant potatoes and de-booting at that crossing before fording the frigid glacier waters and vowing never to do it again. I can't imagine what that creek would be like in a torrential downpour.

For us, learning the history and origin of a trail always makes hiking it that much more enjoyable. In Triumph and Tragedy at Steven's Pass, David Foscue recounts the Great Northern Railway's influence on the region and on the PCT. The railroad that John Stevens constructed over his namesake pass was an engineering marvel, but tragically it was also the site of the worst avalanche disaster in US history. Foscue's account traces man's progress and loss as the railroads strained to conquer the Northern Cascades, giving us a little more to enjoy about what is already one of our favorite hikes; The Iron Goat Trail. As we continue to research and write more about hikes on the PCT for hikingwithmybrother.com, I know will be sharing more of these accounts with our readers.

Bottom line, these books are about reliving your trail memories and being inspired to create new ones. Like many 9-to-5ers, we're constantly daydreaming about our next escape to spires of granite and pristine alpine lakes and these books are great way to get there. The Mountaineers are extending a special offer of 25% off exclusively to Hiking with my Brother readers. Simply click on the image of the book of your choice, and use coupon code "HikeBro" from 12/8 to 12/16 to get a great read and support Trail #2000. On Monday, we're announcing our Holiday Giveaway! We have a few promotional copies of the Pacific Crest Trailside Reader to give away, so stay tuned for the details! -Jer

To order your copy, click one of the images and use

coupon code

"HikeBro"

To receive 25% off your order.

Valid 12/8 - 12/16

Free shipping until 12/11

Mount Dickerman Trail #710

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:31:52 PST

Our Hiking Time: 4h 50m
Total Ascent: 3800ft
Highest Point: 5723ft
Total Distance: 8 miles
Location: N 48° 4.1340, W 121° 28.2600
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Hard

This week we continued our exploration of the Mountain Loop Highway by tackling Mt. Dickerman, one of the area’s more challenging trails. The trail promised an easily accessible trailhead and breath-taking views. And it delivered.

Mt. Dickerman was named after Alton L. Dickerman, a mining engineer who was sent to assess the Monte Cristo area in 1891. His analysis helped a group of investors convince Nelson Rockefeller to back a mining venture, which spurred the development of the Monte Cristo Mining District. Ultimately becoming a Trustee of the Monte Cristo Mining Company, Dickerman remained connected to the troubled mining region until his death in 1921.

The Mt. Dickerman Trail #710 begins at the Dickerman/Perry Creek trailhead just off the Mountain Loop Highway. From the onset, this trail is an uphill battle, quickly rising away from the highway in a long series of tight switchbacks. The route tunnels through thick, mixed forest of maple, hemlock, and fir. Streams occasionally cut across the path, and the trail often brushes near waterfalls and creeks just off-trail. With nearly 4000’ of elevation to climb up, these little side attractions make for great stopping points along the way.

After about three miles of switchbacks, the trail transitions from dark forest to open alpine meadows that hint at views to come. In the spring and summer months, this area is awash in wildflowers and mountain blueberry. After this brief respite, the trail gains the ridgeline and presses upward to the summit. Navigate this next set of switchbacks and before long you’ll find yourself on a precipice, looking hundreds of feet down into the Perry Creek Valley. Tread carefully and find a spot to take in the 360-degree views. To the north pick out Mt. Baker and White Chuck Mountain rising above nearby Mt. Forgotten. As you turn east Mt. Sloan looms large next to Glacier Peak, Mt. Pugh, and Bedal Peak. Mt. Rainer can be seen to the south behind Del Campo Peak, Vesper Peak, Big Four Mountain, and Morningstar Peak. Mt. Pilchuck and The Three Fingers are to the west.

We highly recommend adding a trip to Mt. Dickerman to your hiking list. On a good day the views from the summit are stunning. Mountains stretch out endlessly in every direction, and it’s easy to see why hikers trudge their way to the top of Mt. Dickerman year-round. While trail is a little rocky, hundreds of booted feet keep the route free of blow downs and overgrowth. Only the steep elevation gain might keep this hike a little out of reach for some. Still, the trail is in good enough condition that most hikers should be able to make it given enough time.

To get there, take I-5 North to Exit 194. Follow Highway 2 for about two miles. Stay in the left lane and merge onto Lake Stevens Highway 204. Follow for two miles to Highway 9. Take the left onto Highway 9 toward Lake Stevens. In just under two miles, you’ll reach Highway 92 to Granite Falls. Take a right and follow for about nine miles to the Mountain Loop Highway. Take the MLH for a little over 27 miles to the Dickerman/Perry Trailhead on your left. – Nathan

View large versions of the photos

The 2012 Hiking Calendar

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:50:14 PST

Almost every weekend for years, we have been trekking down hiking trails across Washington and reporting our findings on hikingwithmybrother.com. Now we've put together a calendar that draws on our all-season hiking experience. The Hiking with my Brother 2012 Calendar suggests a different hike every Saturday in 2012, each chosen with the season in mind. The calendar also showcases some of our best photography from the suggested hikes to inspire you to get out on the trail. Of course all the hike details, including directions, history, and photos can be found on hikingwithmybrother.com. Check out the preview of the calendar below, and we hope you pick one up for you or a loved one this holiday season. -Jer

Boardman and Evan Lake Trail #704

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:54:02 PST

Our Hiking Time: 1h 10m
Total Ascent: 400ft
Highest Point: 3100ft
Total Distance: 2 miles
Location: N 48° 1.5420, W 121° 41.2200
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Easy

Most weeks we head out the door with a couple of destinations in mind. We mostly want some alternatives just in case we find trail access washed out or closed, but sometimes weather conditions also play a role. This week heavy rain prodded us toward a very short but popular destination just off the Mountain Loop Highway: Boardman Lake. Despite being well-prepared and very use to hiking in the rain, we just didn’t feel up to facing the rain after such a short summer.

This short trail wastes no time diving into the trees. The forest here is mature, and only becomes older as you press deeper under the canopy. The junction of Evans Lake appears almost immediately, veering off to the right. The walk out to this tree-lined lake is not more than a few hundred yards, though the marshy shore is not nearly as welcoming as Boardman. Either way, the wide trail continues to wander through old-growth forest. In about a half-mile the trail begins to angle downward toward the water and a small gravel beach. From here, unofficial waytrails continue around the rocky shores of the lake, providing access to quiet viewpoints and secluded picnic spots. Hop across the logs that have collected at the lake’s outlet to find the five official campsites.

It almost goes without saying that a hike of less than a mile is a good option for the whole family. But it is worth noting that the trail is very friendly, with only a few roots and rocks to trip up little feet. And campsites are decent, and make for an excellent introduction to backpacking. However, perhaps because it is so easily accessible, the lake is popular in the summer months, and snagging a campsite may be challenging. Thankfully the lake is large enough that there is more than enough shoreline to go around. Find a quiet spot for a snack and enjoy a landscape that seems more wild and remote than you might expect.

To get there, take I-5 North to Exit 194. Follow Highway 2 for about two miles. Stay in the left lane and merge onto Lake Stevens Highway 204. Follow for two miles to Highway 9. Take the left onto Highway 9 toward Lake Stevens. In just under two miles reach Highway 92 to Granite Falls. Take a right and follow for about nine miles to the Mountain Loop Highway. Follow the MLH for nearly 16 miles to FR 4020, signed for multiple trailheads including the Boardman Lake Trail. Take a right and follow the gravel road about two-and-a-half miles to a junction. Head left and continue a little over two miles to the trailhead. - Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Cave Ridge Trail via Commonwealth Basin

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:21:11 PST

Our Hiking Time: 4h 30m
Total Ascent: 2500ft
Highest Point: 5240ft
Total Distance: 6 miles
Location: N 47° 27.1620, W 121° 24.3060
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

It’s been months since we’ve hiked in Snoqualmie Pass. This week we returned to take care of some unfinished business. Over a year ago we tried to climb Cave Ridge via an unmaintained series of trails through the Commonwealth Basin, only to be stymied by early snows. This time the weather cooperated and we were soon enjoying big views filled with the reds and oranges of autumn.

We outlined much of this history of the area when we climbed Guye Peak, Red Mountain, and Snoqualmie Mountain. Cave Ridge is probably named for the extensive limestone cave system that permeates it – one of only three such systems in Washington State. There are a number of named caves in the area including Cascade, Clark’s, Hellhole, Newton, Prospector’s, and Red Caves. Of these, the main trail only goes by Newton Cave. Other caves are scattered around the ridge and are not easy to find without guidance. A word of caution: these caves are dangerous, many involving tight spaces and long vertical sections – Hellhole begins with a six-story drop to the cavern floor – so do not enter without the right gear and experience.

Cave Ridge is also home to an art installation designed to spark discussion about our relationship with nature and the wilderness. Tucked off-trail on a small rise sits a genuine US West phone booth, cemented into place as if professionally installed by the phone company. The project was put together in the summer of 2010, but it is already showing signs of wear – the receiver has gone missing and the weight of snow is slowly causing the booth to collapse. Still, judging from online conversations, the artists seem to have achieved their goal of starting a conversation.

Most hikers approach Cave Ridge from Alpental following the Guye Peak Trail up to a saddle, then veering left up to the top of the ridge. Instead, we wanted to try an approach that followed an unmaintained section of trail through Commonwealth Basin. Our route begins at the trailhead for Kendall Katwalk and Red Mountain. However, almost immediately you’ll take a left onto a narrow, alder-lined trail. Follow this one-time logging road as it occasionally tries on the role of streambed, a theme that continues for the majority of the trail up to the saddle.

The soggy trail winds upwards through the trees, heading closer to Commonwealth Creek. A couple of side trails branch off to creekside cascades, worth a peek if you have some extra time. Beyond the side trails, the trail reaches the creek, currently spanned by two large logs lashed together with thin cable and chicken wire. Once across, the main trail continues to the right, and eventually carries you to Red Mountain. Instead, head left and cross a branch of the creek, following the faded trail to the foot of Guye Peak.

From here, the trail becomes increasingly difficult. The first section is fairly flat, as you remain in the valley bottom and occasionally slog through marshy areas at the base of talus fields. There are quite a few fallen trees to navigate here, and the trail often disappears under brush or water. This continues until you reach a pair of small waterfalls tumbling across the trail that seem to mark the trail’s end. But the trail continues - straight up the waterfall. After this point the trail is extremely steep. Only every so often will there be short sections of level ground before the trail angles straight uphill again. Exposed roots and overgrowth often make the trail slick, and the steep grade adds to the challenge. Tread carefully to avoid a tumble.

Eventually you’ll find yourself in a rocky gully that leads up to the saddle between Guye Peak and Cave Ridge. Head right at the intersection and follow the well-trodden trail the short distance up to the top. After the steep inclines and rough trail below, the trip to the top will seem like a breeze. Suddenly you’ll find yourself standing nearly face-to-face with Snoqualmie Mountain. You can easily see nearby Red Mountain, Kendall Peak, Guye Peak, and Denny Mountain in the nearly 360-degree view. A bit further in the distance, Mt. Thompson can be seen just beyond Red Mountain, and Chair Peak and the Tooth are further down the ridge from Denny Mountain. If the views aren’t enough and you want a little extra, take a moment to look directly at Red Mountain. On a far ridge, you can just barely make out a sliver of metal and a hint of blue. There lies the phone booth. Follow any of the faint waytrails down to a trio of lakelettes and up to the booth.

To get there, take Exit 52 off I-90 and take a left onto Alpental Road. After you pass under the freeway, take a right onto a small spur road marked Pacific Crest Trail and follow to the parking lot. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Beckler Peak Trail #1240

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:03:32 PST

Our Hiking Time: 3h 15m
Total Ascent: 2300ft
Highest Point: 5062ft
Total Distance: 7.5 miles
Location: N 47° 44.1420, W 121° 16.9080
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

This week we headed out toward Steven’s Pass to investigate news of a new trail opening in the Wild Sky Wilderness promising an easy hike up to great views atop Beckler Peak. We weren’t the only ones who had heard the news; we arrived to find the parking lot at the recently dedicated Jennifer Dunn Trailhead already overflowing.

Beckler Peak was named for Elbridge H. Beckler, a well-known railroad engineer who oversaw the extension of the Great Northern Railway through Washington from 1889 to 1893. Industry followed the railroad, and before long a crude fire lookout was built near the top of Beckler’s West Peak, little more than a rough platform nailed to the top of some trees. It wasn’t until 1924 that the make-shift platform was replaced by a log cabin and lookout tower by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It remained in use until it was abandoned in 1958 after it burned down.

For years, a number of trails led to the lookout site and Beckler Peak’s prominences, worn into the mountain by hikers, hunters and outdoor lovers. One such was Norm McCausland, a Skykomish District Ranger who had a cabin at Harlan Saddle – the low point between Beckler Peak and Alpine Baldy. McCausland died in 1982, but his cabin continued to be a popular destination on Beckler Peak, even as logging companies moved in and replaced many of the old trails with roads. Today, the cabin is little more than a jumbled pile of moss-covered logs, but if you’re looking for it, it’s hard to miss this former landmark.

From the trailhead, the route follows a series of logging roads through a young forest of alder and maple. Wide switchbacks and decent roadbeds make the first two miles of the hike fairly easy, though the grade is steeper than one might expect from a logging road. Hike past splashing creeks and catch the occasional glimpse of the landscape through the trees. Reach the saddle after crossing through a section of clearcut and enter a very different, much older forest.

The transition is nearly instant. Suddenly you’re on a quiet trail through mature firs and hemlock, leaving behind the dusty logging road and the road noise of the highway. The trail becomes a little more difficult here as switchbacks tighten and gain elevation more quickly. Continue following the ridgeline as the trees begin to thin and a series of rock steps help smooth out the final push up to Beckler’s exposed East Peak.

There is some controversy over which of Beckler’s three major Peaks – East, Middle, West – is the most prominent. Although they are all about the same height, each Peak has a set of advocates claiming the title. We don’t have a favorite and assume you can get the same spectacular view from each of them, though official trails lead only to the East Peak. On a good day you can pick out Mt. Rainier, but there’s plenty to see much closer. Glacier Peak looms large to the north, along with Sloan Peak, Frog Mountain, and Evergreen Mountain. Pick out Scorpion Mountain as you turn east toward nearby Mt. Fenrow and Alpine Baldy. Turn south to the Skykomish Valley and the town of Skykomish below. To the west you can pick out Mt. Index, Baring Mountain, Merchant Peak and Eagle Rock.

This trail delivers a great view without too much effort - a combination that has already made it very popular. The East Peak does not have a lot of room, and by the time we made it to the top there were already quite a few other folks there. While the crowds were certainly drawn by the recent trailhead construction, this hike is likely to continue to be popular so expect some company on your way up. Still, the route is in great condition and the nearly 360-degree views are excellent. We recommend you find your way out to Beckler Peak before long.

To get there, take Highway 2 out past Skykomish. Two miles past the Ranger Station take a left onto FR 6066, which is signed but easy to overshoot if you’re not paying attention. Continue for just under two miles to a junction. Bear right and continue about five miles to trailhead at road’s end. FR 6066 is a one-lane gravel road with occasional pullouts; use some extra caution navigating the traffic as hikers explore new trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Lake of the Angels via Putvin Trail #813

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Sun, 13 May 2012 18:08:32 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 6h 45m
Total Ascent: 3400ft
Highest Point: 4950ft
Total Distance: 7 miles
Location: N 47° 35.8200, W 123° 16.3440
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Hard

We headed back over to the Olympic Peninsula to take on a famously obscure hike of legendary proportions. With names like the Valley of Heaven and St. Peter’s Gate, we anticipated a trip to the Lake of Angels would be stunning – and it delivered.

There is more than one way to reach the Lake of Angels, though the route we chose along the Carl Putvin Trail #813 is the most direct and frequently used approach. The trail runs right past its namesake’s grave, and probably because he died at such a young age, folks are pretty curious about what happened to the 21-year-old Carl Putvin. There are a lot of different stories out there, though all seem to agree that he died during the winter, a victim of the elements. Some say the trapper was headed to get medicine for his sick daughter, others say he was simply found frozen, sitting by the side of the trail. We’ve decided to go with his great-granddaughter’s version: Putvin left the family cabin near the Lake of Angels to get supplies from Eldon and along the way a tree fell on him, pinning him under it. Either the impact of the tree or the elements ended his short life in January of 1913. He left behind a wife and son.

From the trailhead the route immediately plunges into the trees, following Boulder Creek up past Putvin’s grave and winding past ancient moss-covered boulders. Here a forest of pine and hemlock rises out of a thick layer of salal and huckleberry, occasionally thinning to allow glimpses of Mount Pershing and Jefferson Ridge on the far side of the Hamma Hamma Valley. The trail continues to gain elevation at a fairly steady pace, though there are a few ups and downs involved when navigating a couple of large gullies that streams have carved into the mountainside. After about a mile and a half you will find yourself on the remains of an abandoned forest road in front of a small registration station. From here, the real work begins.

Start your ascent, and be prepared for a workout. The trail is not only steep; it is also rougher than the trail below, adding to the challenge. Soon the trail ushers you into the Mt. Skokomish Wilderness and the sounds of Whitehorse Creek. As you switchback ever-upwards, breaks in the treeline offer views of Mt. Skokomish, towering over the rocky headwall you will need to clamber up to reach the Valley of Heaven. Depending on the time of year, your efforts will be rewarded with increasingly better views of the creek tumbling down the headwall into a broad alder-filled plateau before disappearing into the trees below.

After a bit of scrambling you’ll stumble into subalpine meadows, crossing slow creeks and passing The Pond of the False Prophet – a large pond one might mistake for the Lake of Angels in the fevered hope that the journey is at an end. While close, press onward to the Olympic National Park boundary, and the last series of steep switchbacks up an avalanche chute to the Valley of Heaven. Here, the Lake of Angels is gently cupped in a cirque between Mt. Skokomish and Mt. Stone, fed by the snowfields the cling to the craggy ridgeline the connects the two mountains. Expect to run into some wildlife up here, mountain goats and marmots are common. Settle in and enjoy a little slice of heaven.

While we highly recommend this hike, it’s definitely not for the unprepared. It’s not the most difficult hike we’ve ever done, but the Lake of Angels was certainly challenging to get to. At the same time, many guidebooks give the impression that this trail requires some serious mountaineering skills to tackle – this is not the case. While there is one very small section that will probably require you to use some handholds to help you climb up the roots and rocks, that’s as harrowing as it gets. If you’re a strong hiker and are looking for something a little out of the ordinary, this is definitely a trail to check out. There are a few wilderness campsites around the lake, making an overnight an easy option. From the lake there is access to a variety of destinations including Hagen Lake or Mt. Stone and the Stone Ponds via a pass known as St. Peter’s Gate.

To get there, take I-5 south to Olympia to Exit 104 toward Aberdeen and Port Angeles. Follow US 101 along Hood Canal almost 49 miles through Shelton and Hoodsport to FR 25, also known as the Hamma Hamma River Road. Take a left and follow the road 12 miles to the trailhead just beyond Boulder Creek. The last five miles of the road are unpaved and have seen some washouts. A high clearance vehicle is recommended. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Upper Royal Basin via Royal Creek Trail #832

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:21:55 PST

Our Hiking Time: 12h
Total Ascent: 3000ft
Highest Point: 5700ft
Total Distance: 16 miles
Location: N 47° 49.2780, W 123° 13.1160
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

It has been a long time coming, but this week we finally hopped a ferry and did our first hike in the Olympics. Despite the logistical hassle of ferries and extra driving time, we were excited to explore some new territory. We decided to start with the heavily traveled and ever-popular Royal Basin, one of the jewels of the Olympic National Park’s rain shadow region.

Named in 1890 by the O'Neil Expedition, the creek, lake and basin were all dubbed “royal” for reasons lost to the whimsy of exploratory christenings. Since that time, thousands of feet have packed down trail roughly following the creek to its source at Royal Lake.

The trail begins at Upper Dungeness Trailhead, a parking area along Forest Road 2860 near the Dungeness River. Climb up the Dungeness River Trail through looming moss-covered firs and thick underbrush for about a mile to a junction pointing you toward Royal Basin. Sheltered under the thick forest canopy begin the long trek to the lake alongside the constant burbling of Royal Creek, your companion for nearly the entire journey.

As you progress the forest will occasionally open, revealing glimpses of nearby peaks lining the valley. On our trip, avalanches had re-graded sections of the trail, obscuring the trail, and forcing us to find creative ways around the debris that had tumbled down the mountain. Streams both small and large cut across the trail, often snaking down narrow grass-filled valleys invariably filled with small herds of deer.

The mild grade is occasionally interspersed with a short set of switchbacks, though eventually the trail flattens out into expansive meadows before hitting the last and most strenuous portion of the hike. Push through the final series of switchbacks to reach the lakeshore. Royal Lake sits directly beneath Mt. Clark, with Mt. Deception looming over the far end of the lake. For those feeling like a little extra adventure, a footpath leads around the lake and gives access to the upper basin at the base of Mt. Deception. Whether you are spending the night just out on an extended dayhike, find a quiet space to take in the panorama and settle in.

This is an excellent hike, one that we recommend you consider for a weekend backpack. The distance from Seattle and the length of the hike makes this a very long day if you’re not planning on an overnight. Though, on a sunny day the Royal Creek Valley is picturesque in and of itself, making a shortened version of this hike well worth the effort. Although definitely a popular and well-known hike, we did not encounter that many people along the way. In fact, we ran into more wildlife than people – not only a countless number of deer, but marmots and a few close encounters with black bears as well.

To get there, take the Bainbrige Island Ferry, following State Route 305 through Poulsbo to State Route 3. Follow SR 3 to the Hood Canal Bridge, taking a left over the bridge onto State Route 104. Follow SR 104 as it merges onto US 101 and continue another 18 miles and turn left onto left on Palo Alto Road. From here, take a right onto FR 2880 near the Dungeness River. Continue just under two miles to FR 2870. Head left and follow for six-and-a-half miles to the trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Blanca Lake Trail #1052

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:02:15 PST

Our Hiking Time: 4h 40m
Total Ascent: 3400ft (2700ft in; 700ft out)
Highest Point: 4700ft
Total Distance: 7.5 miles
Location: N 47° 56.0760, W 121° 20.5920
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Hard

The bright blue skies of a September weekend were enough to push us to tackle an alpine lake that’s been on our list for years: Blanca Lake. The hike is known for the vivid colors of the lakewater and a relentless series of switchbacks gaining nearly 3000ft in three miles. We expected a challenge and Blanca Lake delivered.

Nestled in the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness at the bottom of a cirque formed by Kyes, Monte Cristo, and Columbia Peaks, Lake Blanca is something of a hidden treasure. At least it was at some point. Today the Blanca Lake Trail #1052 is very popular, drawing dozens of hikers down miles of gravel forest roads every weekend.

The trail beings pleasantly enough, gliding quickly through forests of hemlock and sword fern. Within a few tenths of a mile you enter the Wild Sky Wilderness and the trail quickly steepens, signaling the beginning of the three mile ascent. Surprisingly, the trail is well-maintained here, largely free of the jutting rocks and roots more typical of trails in the area. As you climb, the water-loving ferns slowly recede and are replaced with heartier huckleberry, eventually yielding to lush meadows at the top.

While the lower trail is completely tree-covered, the meadows offer your legs some respite and some of the first views of the hike. On a good day, you’ll see Glacier Peak looming in the near distance through the occasional break in the treeline. Once you push through the meadows to the top of the saddle and some of the best vistas, the trail begins a fairly steep descent down to the lakeshore. The route drops about 600ft, quickly passing Virgin Lake and a host of decent campsites following a much rougher and narrower trail. The expected jumble of rocks and roots are in full attendance, making the path a little more slippery and precarious. Luckily, the Washington Trail Association was already on the scene doing some trail work to make the hike more navigable.

The trail spills you out at the top of the cirque, the vibrant green-blue waters of Blanca Lake standing out in sharp contrast to the sheer granite walls surrounding the lake. The snowfield in the distance is Columbia Glacier, which fuels the lake with run-off and glacial silt, helping to give the lake its distinctive color. While most folks end the hike here, we suggest you continue down the trail to the lakeshore and Blanca’s outlet, Troublesome Creek. Supposedly the trail continues around the lake to the Glacier, though it requires fording Troublesome Creek. Starting from the creek and running clockwise, the ridgeline climbs up Columbia Peak, then to Monte Cristo Peak just to the right of the glacier before running into the imposing crags of Kyes Peak. Claim some space and take it all in. Or, if you’re thirsty for adventure and you feel very confident in your rock climbing skills, you can clamber down the rocks along Troublesome Creek to Blanca Lake Falls, a reportedly enormous series of waterfalls, some dropping hundreds of feet to the rocks below.

We recommend this hike for most hikers, though some will find the elevation gain a little too taxing. Of course, as we mentioned, Lake Blanca attracts quite a few hikers, and you can expect quite a bit of company when you make the trek. However, this isn’t a hike to do early in the season to avoid the crowds, as the lake needs to thaw in order to reveal its trademark colors. This is definitely a destination for those hikers looking for something a little different – Lake Blanca is not your typical alpine lake.

To get there, take Highway 2 out past Skykomish to milepost 50. Take a left onto FR 65, also known as the Beckler River Road. Continue for almost seven miles to a junction and pavement end. From here continue north for just under six miles to a 5-way intersection known as Jack Pass. Take the second left and continue two-and-a-half miles to FR 63. Turn right and drive two miles to the trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Jolly Mountain Trail #1307 - Shortcut

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:06:33 PST

Our Hiking Time: 4h
Total Ascent: 1800ft
Highest Point: 6433ft
Total Distance: 7.5 miles
Location: N 47° 23.0220, W 121° 1.2900
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Moderate

This week we headed over Snoqualmie Pass to continue exploring the Teanaway area. After flipping through some guidebooks and doing a little research online, we set our sights on Jolly Mountain. With clear skies overhead we geared up and headed up the trail toward great views and the remains of a fire lookout.

There are a number of approaches to Jolly Mountain. The more traditional approach is via the Jolly Mountain Trail #1307, a 12 mile route through pine forest climbing over 4000ft along the way. We decided to take a shortcut to shave off some of that distance and elevation by following logging roads halfway up the mountainside. While shorter, the shortcut is somewhat less scenic, as it involves hiking along forest roads and traversing a few clearcuts. Still, the views from the summit are the real price of this hike, and the shortcut delivers you to those views quickly.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t determine how the mountain came to be known as Jolly, though we assume there is probably a good story behind it. Between the railroads and the Forest Service, fire spotters were camping on Jolly Mountain’s summit by 1916, though it would be five more years before permanent cabin would be constructed. In 1936, the cabin was replaced and remained standing for over 30 years before it was destroyed in 1968. Today, lingering pieces of rusting metal and some carefully arranged rocks are the only remains of the lookout.

The shortcut begins by following FR 4315 as far up the mountain as possible. There are two gates along the road, if the first one is locked, you’re better off taking the traditional approach rather than hiking up miles of steep forest road. For us, we were stopped and the second gate, which left only about a mile of road to deal with before connecting up with the Sasse Mountain Trail #1340 and ascending the ridge. The route has a number of ups and downs, so be prepared for something of a workout. And, while hiking through clearcuts isn’t typically something we look forward to doing, in this case they provided a great preview to the vistas that awaiting you at the summit.

There are a number of trail junctions along this route which can potentially cause some confusion. To avoid getting turned around, stick to the Sasse Mountain Trail until is connects with Jolly Mountain Trail #1307. Here, head uphill and stay on the Jolly Mountain Trail until you reach the summit and its impressive 360-degree views. You’ll be able to easily pick out Mt. Rainier, Glacier Peak, Mt. Adams, Mt. Stuart and Mt. Daniel. Some of Jolly’s neighbors are also in attendance, including Sasse Mountain and Skookum Peak. Plan on spending some time here soaking up these expansive views.

While a shortcut, this route is still a little hard on the knees, so we don’t recommend it for everyone. However, the views rank among some of the best we’ve ever seen, making it more than worth the effort to get to the top. Much like Hex Mountain, this is not a wildly popular hike, typically seeing more traffic during the winter months, so you’re unlikely to run into too many other hikers. However, both the Sasse Mountain Trail and the Jolly Mountain Trail are open to both motorcyclists and horseback riding, so be prepared to share the trail.

To get there, take I-90 to Exit 80. Head left over the freeway following Bullfrog Road to SR 903. Follow 903 a little over 18 miles through Roslyn and along Cle Elum Lake to FR 4315. The road is not well signed, if you hit the Salmon La Sac Guard Station, you’ve gone too far. Once you find FR 4315, take a right and follow it about six miles as it switchbacks up the mountainside to a locked gate. Park and head up the road to connect with the Sasse Mountain Trail. –Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Pinnacle and Bear Lake Trail #703

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:11:31 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h 40m
Total Ascent: 1200ft
Highest Point: 3800ft
Total Distance: 4.2 miles
Location: N 48° 3.1140, W 121° 45.3000
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

This week we headed out to the Mountain Loop Highway with plans to check out the Bathtub Lakes Basin via Pinnacle Lake. Unfortunately, while we made it to the lake, lingering snow and foggy weather kept us from trudging up Iodine Gulch to what some have called “The Poor Man’s Enchantments.”

While hikers have been making treks to Pinnacle Lake since at least the 1920s, any mention of the Pinnacle Lake Trail has been overshadowed by the tragedy that happened there five years ago. On July 11, 2006, a mother and daughter, Mary Cooper and Susanna Stoddard, were found murdered on the trailside. Both shot in a random act of violence that remains unsolved. Both avid hikers and lovers of the outdoors, the pair had logged a great deal of trail miles in the Cascades together and with the rest of their family. The event reverberated through hiking community, raising questions around hiker safety and protection. Today, in an effort to raise public awareness and honor their memories, friends and family organize an annual memorial walk around Green Lake every July 11th.

The route follows Bear Lake Trail for a few tenths of a mile before branching off on The Pinnacle Lake Trail #703.1. Before pressing on, we recommend you take some time to trek out to Bear Lake and check it out – its tree-lined shores are worth the extra few tenths of a mile. Once back on the path to Pinnacle Lake, the trail quickly begins a series of somewhat steep switchbacks, made more difficult by healthy amounts of rocks, roots, and mud. The trail stays wet most of the year, so come prepared to squish through boggy mud flats and dodge areas of standing water. Eventually younger mixed conifer forest grudgingly gives way to sub-alpine forest, and the switchbacks also begin to yield to a gentler grade, signaling that the lake is near.

The trail deposits you a bit above the shore, near Black Creek, Pinnacle’s outlet. From here, you can take in the entire length of the lake. Almost entirely surrounded by the steep, rocky shoulders of Mt. Pilchuck, the lake has an air of rugged isolation. Find one of the many social trails down to the rocky lakeshore and enjoy the quiet. Or, for the more adventurous, continue around the left side of the lake to the bootpath leading up the talus fields of Iodine Gulch to the Bathtub Lakes Basin.

This hike is something of a mixed bag. Although it’s short, the trail is more than a little rough, making it challenging for hikers looking for less mileage. At the same time, the route quickly transports the hiker from a logging road to a serene alpine lake in less than three miles. We’d recommend this hike to more experienced hikers who are short on time, or who have their sights set on the Bathtub Lakes Basin.

To get there, take I-5 North to Exit 194. Follow Highway 2 for about two miles. Stay in the left lane and merge onto Lake Stevens Highway 204. Follow for two miles to Highway 9. Take the left onto Highway 9 toward Lake Stevens. In just under two miles, reach Highway 92 to Granite Falls. Take a right and follow for about nine miles to the Mountain Loop Highway (MLH). Follow the MLH for just over 15 miles to FR 4020. Take a right and follow for about two-and-a-half miles to a junction. Veer right onto FR 4021 and continue for three miles following signs to Bear Lake and the trailhead. - Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Boulder Cave Trail #962

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:19:03 PST

Our Hiking Time: 45m
Total Ascent: 250ft
Highest Point: 2700ft
Total Distance: 1.5 miles
Location: N 57.4620, W 121° 5.0067
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Easy

With guests in from out of town, we decided to show off Washington’s variety by heading over the mountains to Yakima. Along the way, we wanted a short hike to stretch our legs and explore some new terrain. Boulder Cave, just off of Highway 410, seemed the perfect fit.

Boulder Cave is something of a misnomer, as it’s really a 300ft long tunnel arching over Devil’s Creek. The tunnel was created when the creek, which had been happily carving a small canyon through the hard basalt left by ancient lava flows, suddenly found a layer of softer rock beneath the basalt. The creek quickly began to wear away at the underlying rock, eventually causing part of the canyon wall to tip over, enclosing the creek in darkness. The tunnel then became home to a colony of Pacific Western big-eared bats. Once numbering in the thousands, after the Civilian Conservation Corps built the trail and recreation area in 1935, the bat population quickly declined as visitors increased. Today, only a handful of bats return during the winter to hibernate. To protect them, the Forest Service closes the trail from October to May. Although the trail is only open four months a year, it still sees over 35,000 visitors annually.

Boulder Cave #962 is a very short trail, wide enough to accommodate the crowds that flock to it. The trail runs along the top of the gorge before dropping down to the far end of the cave through a series of switchbacks and boardwalks that help even the youngest hikers navigate their way down to the creek. Visitors are all funneled in one direction to keep people shuffling through the darkness at a steady pace. As you enter the cave the temperature drops, the dark closes in, and the creek echoes loudly off the slanted ceiling. In less than five minutes, you’re back in the daylight and headed back to the car.

This isn’t much of a hike, but it’s a nice little roadside attraction. It’s also very toddler-friendly, making it a good choice for young families. However, the easy access means that you should expect a lot of company. Boulder Cave sees hundreds of visitors a day and parking is often a challenge. If you go, be prepared to share the trail. Some respite from the crowds can be found by forgoing the cave and continuing to follow the trail. The unmaintained path quickly thins and passes a small waterfall before depositing you at the creekside. From here, it’s possible to scramble a half-mile upstream to Devil Creek Falls.

To get there, take I-5 south to Highway 18 at Exit 142A. Follow Highway 18 into Auburn and take the SR 164 exit. Head left on SR 164 through Enumclaw to SR 410. Head left onto SR 410 and continue 71 miles to Forest Road 1704, signed Boulder Cave. Take a right over the river and follow the signs about a mile to the trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Mount Persis Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Mon, 28 May 2012 17:38:44 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 4h 30m
Total Ascent: 2700ft
Highest Point: 5464ft
Total Distance: 4 miles
Location: N 47° 47.4240, W 121° 36.7140
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Hard

This week, blue skies and warm weather lured us out toward Index to climb Mt. Persis, a seemingly short summit that’s been on our list for years. After winding our way up some rough logging roads, we found the unmarked trailhead and headed out on the rough bootpath for a hefty workout and some spectacular views.

The area around Index was first settled by Amos and Persis Gunn back in 1889. The area quickly became a stopping point for travelers, and the town of Index was platted in 1893. By 1907 the town was officially incorporated and Persis Gunn had named many of the peaks surrounding the growing settlement, including Gunn Peak, Mt. Persis, and the original Mt. Index (now called Mt. Baring). The first recorded ascent of Mt. Persis was in 1917 by Harry B. Hinman and his climbing party. Today, hikers continue to make the climb to the summit following an unofficial trail straight up the mountainside.

From the beginning this trail is a challenge. It’s rough and difficult, traveling through young forest and clearcuts into older stands of cedar and Douglas fir that proved too difficult to log off the steep slopes. The first mile sees the most elevation gain, with the trail eventually leveling out at the first view of Index and the top of Persis. From there, traverse along the ridgeline, through talus fields and thinning trees before beginning the final leg of the hike. Push upward past two small lakes to the ridge that runs between Persis and Index. Veer left to climb to the top of Persis. If Mt. Index is your goal, head right and be prepared for a long day.

Once you reach the summit of Persis, soak up the expansive views. Neighboring Index is massive. Pick out Baring, Mt. Baker, Gunn Peak, and Mt. Rainier. The exposed granite of the Index Town Wall is easy to spot above the miniature town of Index, and Heybrook Ridge sits just under Mt. Baring. The 360-degree views offer plenty to see before starting the steep slog back down the mountain.

We’ve probably already made this clear, but be prepared: this is not an easy hike. More a bootpath than a real trail, the route occasionally disappears in the undergrowth. The trail is also very steep in places, requiring a little help from nearby trees to make your way up. But the views are incredible - more than worth the effort it takes to make it to the top. Just don’t let the short mileage fool you, and plan on spending a few extra hours tackling this one.

To get there, take US 2 about 33 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 62, just before the town of Index. Follow FR 62 about three and a half miles to a junction with FR 6220. Head left for a little over a mile to another junction, and then again veering left. Continue on the increasingly rough road for another mile, watching for a small pullout on the left just a few hundred feet from road’s end. A steep, well-trod gully opposite the pullout marks the trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Kelly Butte Fire Lookout Trail #1031

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:27:41 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h
Total Ascent: 1100ft
Highest Point: 5400ft
Total Distance: 3.4 miles
Location: N 47° 10.1580, W 121° 29.4180
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Moderate

Finding ourselves a little short on time this week, we headed out to Kelly Butte for a quick hike to up to a restored fire lookout. We navigated our way through a maze of logging roads to find ourselves rapidly climbing through fields of wildflowers toward expansive views of Mt. Rainier and the Green River Valley.

The Kelly Butte Fire Lookout was originally built in 1926, though it was torn down and rebuilt in 1950. The lookout watched over the small Green River Valley communities that sprung up along the Northern Pacific Railway when it built a line over Stampede Pass. Towns like Lester and Nagrom that slowly shrank along with the railroad and timber industries. By 1980, when the towns were all but abandoned, the Forest Service stopped staffing the lookout and it fell into disrepair. Then, in 2006, with money from the Forest Fire Lookout Association and the Forest Service, work began on restoring the lookout. Today the exterior is complete, though some work remains on the interior before the lookout can be rented by hikers and backpackers.

The trail begins steeply, climbing past the rocks and crags of the butte. There are two approaches. The old route starts at the end of the logging road, where ropes have been strung to help you up the steep scramble. The new route is much tamer, and begins a hundred yards from the road’s end. Either way, the trails quickly connect and switchback through logged meadows dotted with sun-bleached stumps and snags. In the summer the meadows are bursting with wildflowers, bear grass, mountain blueberry, and if you’re lucky, you may even come across a mountain goat or two. The views begin almost immediately and grow steadily larger as the trail flattens and you begin the short traverse to the lookout and the view. On a clear day you can’t miss Mt. Rainier, Glacier Peak, Mt. Baker and Mt. Stuart.

This is a fun little hike, quickly delivering a short workout and some views. Despite the steep start, this hike is approachable for almost every hiker. The most challenging part of this hike is actually finding it. There are quite a few unmarked logging roads to deal with, and it is fairly easy to get turned around. Once you find the road to the trailhead, we really encourage you to park at the makeshift lot near the Kelly Butte Trail sign. While you can probably make it down the somewhat overgrown road to the base of the butte, the road is extremely narrow and there are no pullouts, making it impossible for two cars to pass each other on it. If you happen to encounter another car going the opposite direction, one of you will have to reverse all the way to either end of the road to make room.

To get there, take I-5 south to Highway 18 Exit 142A. Follow Highway 18 into Auburn and take the SR 164 exit. Head left on SR 164 through Enumclaw to SR 410. Turn left onto SR 410 and drive about 20 miles through the town of Greenwater, past the fire station to FR 70 on the left. Follow FR 70 a little over eight miles to FR 7030. Take a left onto the gravel road and continue about four miles to a T-intersection. Take a left and continue a mile to the next intersection, again veering to the left. Continue for about a half-mile to another intersection, this time heading right. Find the signed trailhead on the left in about a mile. From here it’s possible for some vehicles to continue the last three-quarters of a mile to the base of Kelley Butte, but we recommend you park and walk it. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Scorpion Mountain via Johnson Ridge Trail #1067

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:31:59 PST

Our Hiking Time: 4h 5m
Total Ascent: 2600ft (2300ft in; 300ft out)
Highest Point: 5540ft
Total Distance: 8 miles
Location: N 47° 47.5440, W 121° 11.8620
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Hard

This week we decided to find out if summer had reached the mountaintops along the Highway 2 corridor, holding on to the faint hope that snows had miraculously receded. We chose the somewhat obscure Scorpion Mountain, assuming its relatively low elevation would mean no lingering snow. The bad news? We encountered a lot more snow than we should have in July. But the good news is that the snow is definitely on the way out – at least under 6,000ft.

Just inside the Wild Sky Wilderness, Scorpion Mountain anchors one end of Johnson Ridge, surrounded by such prominences as Captain Point, Litchtenberg Mountain, Mt. McCausland, Eagle Rock, and Scrabble Mountain. Such evocative names must have a story. Much to our surprise, we were unable to dig up much in the way of history beyond vague hints of a once-expansive trail system branching off from Johnson Ridge. It would seem that remnants of trails can still be found leading out to Mt. Fernow, Alpine Baldy and Beckler Peak. Perhaps the section that sees the most traffic is the Kelley Creek Trail, running between Captain Point and Scorpion Mountain, still used by a few intrepid hikers a year.

The Johnson Ridge Trail #1067 begins steeply, following a decommissioned logging road for a third of a mile before a short but steep ascent to the ridgeline. Once on the ridgeline the route continues upward, slowly transitioning out of logged scrublands into second-generation forest. Eventually the trail enters extended sections of sub-alpine old growth fir and hemlock just as you gain the summit of Sunrise Mountain. From here you can see the meadows of Scorpion Mountain less than two miles distant, along with a view of distant mountain tops to the north. Sunrise makes a fine stopping point for those looking for a shorter hike or something less challenging. From here, this hike gets a little tough.

From the summit, the trail immediately plummets a few hundred feet down the side of Sunrise to follow a saddle to the foot of Scorpion. Forgoing any pretense of a switchback, the trail heads straight up the mountainside, gaining 500ft in a third of a mile to reach the edge of the meadows. Depending on the time of year, the meadows could be covered in yellow glacier lilies, the reddening leaves of autumn huckleberries, or buried beneath a blanket of snow. Take in the meadows as you push onward to a junction. Here, the trail splits, one way leading down to the shores of Joan Lake and the other up a short spur trail to the summit and the biggest prize of the hike: the view.

The 360-degree views of the Central Cascades from Scorpion Mountain are stunning. Look to the north to nearby Evergreen Mountain and try to find the fire lookout. Fortune Mountain is just to the right of Evergreen and Benchmark Mountain just beyond. In the distance pick out the sharp-tipped Sloan Peak as well as the unmistakable Glacier Peak. Turn to the east to pick out Scrabble Mountain and Mt. McCausland. The craggy top of Mt. Fernow is immediately to the south flanked by Captain Point on the left and Beckler Peak on the right. In the distance you can make out the loftier heights of Mt. Daniel, Mt. Hinman and Cathedral Rock. Continuing to the west is Mt. Index, Baring Mountain, Gunn Peak, Spire Mountain, and finally Troublesome Mountain, just to the left of Evergreen Mountain where we began.

This can be a challenging hike. The elevation gain is not insignificant, especially with all the ups and downs. While not an ideal hike for the whole family, many hikers should be able to navigate the sometimes rough trail to the top. The amazing views Scorpion Mountain offers are more than worth the extra workout. The lengthy drive down forest roads keeps this hike a little under the radar, so don’t expect to be sharing the views with a lot of company.

To get there, take Highway 2 out past Skykomish to milepost 50. Take a left onto FR 65, also known as the Beckler River Road. Continue for almost seven miles to a junction, taking a sharp right up FR 6520 and following it for almost three miles to an unsigned junction. Veer left here, continuing on FR 6520 for another four miles to the next junction. Here, take a right up FR 6526 and follow it for about a quarter mile to the last junction, taking a left up to a small trailhead at road’s end. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Greenwater and Echo Lakes Trail #1176

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:35:21 PST

Our Hiking Time: 5h 40m round trip to Echo
Total Ascent: 500ft to Greenwater, 1900ft (1600ft in and 300ft out) to Echo
Highest Point: 3000ft to Greenwater, 4100ft to Echo
Total Distance: 4 miles round trip to Greenwater, 13.0 miles round trip to Echo
Location: N 47° 5.2500, W 121° 26.8740
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Easy to Greenwater, Moderate to Echo

This week we headed out toward Crystal Mountain and Highway 410 to explore the Greenwater Lakes Trail out to Echo Lake. Because this area is extremely popular for both hiking and camping during the summer, we planned an early start to try and get the jump on the crowds on a sunny weekend. We managed our early start, but not avoiding the crowds – the parking lot was already packed by the time we geared up.

The Greenwater River is your constant companion on this hike, and it begins near Naches Pass in the Norse Peak Wilderness, flows down into Hidden Lake, drains out to Echo Lake and then down Greenwater Lakes before eventually merging with the White River near the town of Greenwater. Naches Pass has long been a route though the Cascades, with the earliest recorded crossing following Native American trails in 1841. Since that time the desire to build a more permanent road over the pass has been nearly constant. A series of attempts to build a road resulted in a short-lived wagon route completed in 1853 that was almost immediately abandoned for Snoqualmie Pass. Still, the dream did not die. Proposed plans for a route over the pass were actually codified into Washington law in the 1970s, making the non-existent State Route 168 officially part of the state highway system. Today, the highway would run right through the Norse Peak Wilderness – over 50,000 acres of wildness set aside in 1984.

From the trailhead the hike begins on a very wide, gentle trail. The first two miles to Greenwater Lakes is almost entirely flat, helping to quickly pull you deeper into the forest. Expect to cross half-a-dozen bridges along the way, as the trail follows the path of least resistance up the river valley. Before long, you’ll find yourself at the first of the Greenwater Lakes, which tends to feel a little more like a widening in the river than a true lake. A few campsites can be found here if you follow small side trails around the lake.

Continue a few tenths of a mile to upper Greenwater Lake and beyond the Norse Peak Wilderness boundary. Here the trail temporarily leaves the banks of the river, the forest transitions away from alders and vine maples toward old growth firs and cedars while the crowds begin to thin. The trail becomes a little rockier and steeper, though it is still very well-maintained. Past the boundary the trail hits a junction with the Lost Lake Trail #1185, heading up to the right. Continue to the left for Echo Lake. Now the grade becomes more challenging as the trail climbs a ridge above the Greenwater River. Near the top of the rise the Maggie Creek Trail #1186 splits off to the left. Keep climbing to the top and down the other side to Echo Lake. The forested shores of the lake do not offer huge views, but there are plenty of campsites along the lake. From here, if you’re looking for a longer, more challenging day, you can continue onward to Noble Knob and Corral Pass.

Rushing rivers, placid lakes, and wild forests continue to bring hikers out to the Greenwater Lakes trail. The hike out to Greenwater Lakes is very approachable for any almost anyone. This makes it a great option for young campers on their first overnight or backpacking experience. Beyond the lakes the trail does become more difficult, gaining a fair amount of elevation, so be prepared for more of a workout. Those looking to get away from the crowds will want to avoid this approach to Echo Lake, which can also be accessed via the Corral Pass trailhead. Still, we definitely recommended this hike for getting the whole family on the trail or getting those reluctant friends out on a hike.

To get there, take I-5 south to Highway 18 Exit 142A. Follow Highway 18 into Auburn and take the SR 164 exit. Head left on SR 164 through Enumclaw to SR 410. Turn left onto SR 410 and drive about 20 miles through the town of Greenwater, past the fire station to FR 70 on the left. Follow FR 70 a little over nine miles to FR 7033. Take a right and follow the road to the trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Goat Lake - Elliott Creek Loop Trail #647

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:43:06 PST

Our Hiking Time: 5h 30m
Total Ascent: 1600ft
Highest Point: 3200ft
Total Distance: 10.5 miles
Location: N 48° 1.1040, W 121° 20.9640
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

This week found us back out on the Mountain Loop Highway trekking up the Elliot Creek Trail to Goat Lake. A sunny summer day was the perfect chance to tackle a popular hike that has something for everyone – history, waterfalls, and an alpine lake. It felt like maybe, just maybe, summer had finally arrived.

Goat Lake sits in a cirque surrounded by Sloan, Foggy, and Cadet Peaks within the 102,673 acre Henry M. Jackson Wilderness. Originally named “Sweetleehachu" by the Sauk Indians, miners gave the lake its current name in reference to the mountain goats that roamed the basin’s steep slopes in the early 1890s. As prospectors rushed into Monte Cristo and Mineral City hoping to find gold, they branched out into areas like Goat Lake hoping to strike it rich. The first claims in the basin date back to 1891, quickly followed by a road built by the Penn Mining Company in 1895. Many tunnels were dug into Cadet Peak and Foggy Peak, though these mines produced mostly lead, silver and zinc and very little gold. A small mining town sprang up near the lake outlet, anchored by the Penn Mining Company offices and workers cabins, as well as a lodge that operated from 1927 to 1936 by the MacIntosh family. The 266ft waterfall just below Goat Lake is named MacIntosh Falls in honor of the family. By the 1940s the buildings were abandoned and largely forgotten, until an avalanche swept most of the buildings into the lake. Today a few structures still remain, though the bridge across Elliott Creek has long since washed away making it a little difficult to explore the former townsite.

Elliott Creek Trail #647 begins easily, following the remains of the mining road that once provided access to the lake. Within the first half-mile you’ll find signs pointing to Upper and Lower Elliot. Lower Elliot follows the creek and is about a mile shorter than the upper trail. However, the upper trail is a smoother trail, and is little easier to navigate than the lower trail. We recommend braving the rockier, muddier, and more picturesque lower trail on the way out to the lake. Save the Upper trail for your return trip when the extra mile might be worth a little less strain on your knees.

Either way you’ll cross a number of streams and bubbling cascades along the way, as the forest slowly transitions from alder, fern and bleeding heart to old-growth cedar and moss-covered fir. At three and a half miles you’ll enter the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness, and trade any semblance of road for a winding trail. Continue another mile or so to the roaring MacIntosh Falls, following the faint trails out to get a closer look. Linger here for a few minutes or push up the few remaining switchbacks to Goat Lake. Once you reach the lakeshore, follow the increasingly faint trail until you find a quiet place to settle down and have a snack. Cadet Peak sits at the far end of the lake next to Foggy Peak. If you’re willing to brave the overgrown trail out to the end, you’ll find Bridal Veil Falls tumbling down the cliffs of Sloan Peak.

Popular with both day hikers and backpackers, Goat Lake sees some significant traffic on summer weekends. And it’s easy to see why. While the trail is on the longer side, the grade is mostly gentle and the trail is clear and well-maintained, making this hike approachable for most hikers. The destination is stunning; on a sunny day the reflection of snow-covered mountaintops in the lake is an impressive sight. And, if that wasn’t enough, getting a close-up look at massive MacIntosh Falls is more than worth a four mile hike. We recommend this hike for almost everyone, though be prepared to share the views if you go on a weekend.

To get there, take I-5 North to Exit 194. Follow Highway 2 for about two miles. Stay in the left lane and merge onto Lake Stevens Highway 204. Follow for two miles to Highway 9. Take the left onto Highway 9 toward Lake Stevens. In just under two miles, you’ll reach Highway 92 to Granite Falls. Take a right and follow for about nine miles to the Mountain Loop Highway. Follow the MLH for a little over 30 miles to the end of the pavement. Continue another three and a half miles to FR 4080. Take a right and follow FR 4080 about a mile to the Elliot Creek Trailhead. – Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Thorp Mountain Lookout via Thorp Creek Trail #1316

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:48:01 PST

Our Hiking Time: 5h 20m
Total Ascent: 2300ft
Highest Point: 5854ft
Total Distance: 6.5 miles
Location: N 47° 22.2420, W 121° 12.5160
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Hard

After all the luck we had dodging late snows up on Hex Mountain, when another sunny hiking day presented itself we headed back out over Snoqualmie Pass to continue exploring the trails around Cle Elum Lake. This time we set our sights on the long approach to Thorp Mountain Lookout hoping for some big views off of Kachess Ridge – we were not disappointed.

Thorp Mountain, along with Thorp Lake and Thorp Creek, are all named after Fielding Mortimer Thorp, an early pioneer in the Yakima Valley. Often attributed as the first permanent settler in the Valley in 1860, Thorp also went on in 1885 to found a small town. Years later, the town would be named Thorp by the Northern Pacific Railroad in honor of another member of the Thorp family. In the early 1930s, the US Forest Service built a fire lookout on the summit of Thorp Mountain, along with lookouts on nearby Jolly Mountain and Red Mountain. Today only the Thorp Lookout remains, still staffed by the Forest Service a few months out of the year.

Most hikers approach Thorp Mountain from the Knox Creek Trailhead, which is both shorter and easier than the Thorp Creek Trail we hiked. Currently, this route is made more complicated by the absence of a bridge over Thorp Creek near the trailhead. The creek might be friendlier in a few weeks after this year’s belated thaw, but currently it’s knee-deep, fast-flowing and ice-cold. Cross with caution.

Once across follow a converted logging road as it parallels the creek and takes you through recovering clearcuts. Slide alders and huckleberries line the trail, rising above the grass and brush that cannot quite disguise acres of bleached snags and stumps. Younger firs and pines eventually begin to appear, making this area more attractive to wildlife – we managed to stumble upon some elk and deer on our way up. Soon the trail begins in earnest, quickly transitioning from mild switchbacks to steeper grades.

Alas, we were not able to evade the lingering snows. We quickly lost the trail and found ourselves slogging up the icy mountainside. Still, we found the junction leading the half-mile down to Thorp Lake but chose to forge on to the ridgeline, and the rocky climb up to the lookout. This last stretch is a little steep, but the expansive views from the lookout are more than worth it. Mount Rainier rose above the shimmering blue of Kachess Lake. Nearby Red Mountain is easy to pick out to the northeast. Below, Thorp Lake is nestled amongst the trees. And beyond, the horizon is filled with hundreds of snow-topped peaks. Find a spot to settle down to take it all in.

We liked this approach. It was a little more difficult, but it definitely made up for it in solitude. It also offers the possibility of making a loop out to the summit of Red Mountain following trails once used to connect the lookouts. The parts of the trail that were not covered in snow were in pretty good shape, but it’s still probably not for everyone. With over 2000ft of elevation in a little over three miles, it will definitely give your legs a work out. If you’re looking for a quiet alternative to a popular destination with some amazing views, give Thorp Creek Trail a try.

To get there, take I-90 to Exit 80. Head left over the freeway following Bullfrog Road to SR 903. Follow 903 for 16 miles through Roslyn and along Cle Elum Lake to FR 4308. Turn left onto FR 4308 and follow a little over 3 miles to a signed intersection. Head right down FR 4312 for the Thorp Creek Trail. Continue on FR 4312 for a mile and a half to a gated spur veering to the right. Find a spot to park here and hit the trail. –Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Little Ranger Peak

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:52:02 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h 30m
Total Ascent: 1500ft
Highest Point: 3900ft
Total Distance: 5.5 miles
Location: N 47° 1.8660, W 121° 31.7520
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

Once again finding ourselves a little tight on time, we headed back out to 410 for a short hike up to a prominence known as Little Ranger Peak. Drawn to the promise of an expansive view of the White River Valley we packed up hoping the weather would be in a cooperative mood by the time we got to the top.

The Ranger Creek Trail # 1197 is a moderately popular hiking and biking trail that connects the White River Trail #1199 with the Dalles Ridge Trail #1173. The trail begins right off of 410, but road noise is soon replaced with the sound of rushing waters of Ranger Creek. Within a few minutes you will find the Ranger Creek trail junction leading up the mountainside and into stands of old growth. The moss is thick, clinging to the firs and cedars, fed by the streams the often run across the trail. Occasional glimpses of the valley can be seen as you slowly climb up long and gentle switchbacks.

At just under three miles the trail plateaus and a very short spur trail leads out to Little Ranger Peak. A quick scramble leads out to an open rocky area and commanding views of the White River Valley. Mt. Rainier looks close enough to touch. Take in the steep cliffs, exposed ridgelines, and White River carving a swath through a sea of evergreens. The nearby runway is the Ranger Creek Airstrip. The nearly 3000ft runway sees a lot of air traffic in the summer, for both private aircraft and as a hub for search and rescue operations.

From here, you can turn around and call it a day or continue onward for another two miles to the Ranger Creek Shelter, a three-sided log shelter built by Boy Scouts a number of years ago. Still want some more mileage? A little over a mile beyond the shelter the trail connects with the Dalles Ridge Trail which is reportedly an excellent ridgewalk on a sunny day.

With its gentle grade and quick rewards, take this little hike up to a rocky prominence if you’re short on time. Be aware that you may be sharing the trail with mountain bikers and be prepared to give them a little room – the trail is much more challenging on a bike! And, as a word of caution, clambering all the way out to the viewpoint can be dangerous, especially if the rocks are slick with moisture. Use caution if you decide to risk the scramble.

To get there, take I-5 south to Highway 18 Exit 142A. Follow Highway 18 into Auburn and take the SR 164 exit. Head left on SR 164 through Enumclaw to SR 410. Head left onto SR 410 and continue to milepost 54 and the Buck Creek Recreation Area. Take a right over the bridge to find parking. Gear and and hike back out to 410, crossing the highway, either hiking straight up the hill side or a few hundred yards west to the junction with the White River Trail. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Hex Mountain via Sasse Mountain Trail #1302

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Tue, 22 May 2012 10:10:50 PDT

Our Hiking Time: 2h 30m
Total Ascent: 1500ft
Highest Point: 5030ft
Total Distance: 5 miles
Location: N 47° 19.2600, W 121° 3.8760
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

This week, the forecast predicted the type of clear and sunny day that just begs for a summit hike. With so many nearby mountaintops still covered in snow, we decided to head out over Snoqualmie Pass hoping to avoid another snowshoe. Luckily, our hunch panned out – snows have retreated much further on the east side of the mountains, and our hike up Hex Mountain was almost snow-free.

Hex Mountain is one of many prominences along the ridges surrounding Cle Elum Lake. In 1886 the Northern Pacific Railway built a station near a newly platted township, dubbing it “Clealum.” The name was an anglicization of “tie-el-lum,” the name local tribes had given to a nearby river, meaning “swift water.” The town incorporated in 1902 as Clealum, but six years later changed it to the now familiar Cle Elum. Eventually this name was applied to both the river and the lake. In 1933, the Cle Elum Dam was built to better control the water levels in Cle Elum Lake, ensuring a steady irrigation supply in the summer.

The trail begins with a hike up a rise overlooking Cle Elum Lake, a decent preview of the panoramas to come. The dusty path continues through grassy clearings born when the area was logged years ago, climbing small ridges and descending down the other side. Occasionally, the trail cuts across one of the many logging roads that pervade the area. Thankfully, the maze of roads and trails is sign-posted at every intersection to minimize confusion.

Continue onward and upward to the nearly treeless summit to take in views in every direction. Directly across the lake a series of peaks runs from the east with Mt. Baldy to Thomas Mountain, ending with North Peak at the west end of the lake. Beyond North Peak you can pick out Thorpe Mountain, Red Mountain, and eventually Mt. Rainier. To the west are Sasse and Jolly Mountain. As you turn northward, Elbow Peak and Yellow Hill make up the two ends of the closest ridgeline. To the east the Cascade foothills quickly level out into the flat expanses of eastern Washington. Pick your favorite view and settle in for a snack.

Hex Mountain is a popular snowshoe destination, beginning from State Route 903 in the winter and winding three-and-a-half steep miles up the mountainside. While the hike is less grueling in the summer, many hikers avoid it later in the season as parts of the trail open up to motorcycle traffic. While this can be a significant deterrent for some, a mid-week hike minimizes your chances of encountering motorcyclists. And even if you are forced to endure the noise, as we were, it’s likely only for a few minutes before the smell of gas dissipates and the sounds of the forest return. Moreover, motorcycles are not allowed all the way up the trail, allowing you some respite near the summit.

Short and rewarding, this is a great hike to take your reluctant hiking friends on. The trail is in great shape and not at all rough, with only one small blowdown along the way. The elevation gain might be little strenuous for some – about 600ft per mile – but should be approachable for most. And the views will be enough to placate any complaints. As an added bonus, the motorcycles do a decent job of keeping other hikers at bay – don’t expect too much company on this one. Ideally, hit this one during the work week to dodge the motorized traffic.

To get there, take I-90 to Exit 80. Head left over the freeway following Bullfrog Road to SR 903. Follow 903 for 10 miles through Roslyn and along Cle Elum Lake to FR 4305. Turn right into FR 4305 and follow for a half-mile to the first intersection. Veer left and continue on FR 4305 for another mile, watching for a sign pointing left to Sasse Mountain. From here it is another mile to the end of the road and the trailhead. –Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Myrtle Lake via Dingford Creek Trail #1005

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:06:13 PST

Our Hiking Time: 6h 45m
Total Ascent: 2400ft
Highest Point: 3800ft
Total Distance: 10 miles
Location: N 47° 32.842, W 121° 22.958
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Moderate

This week we returned to the Middle Fork Valley to take on a hike that has been on our list for years – Myrtle Lake via the Dingford Creek Trail. After our recent Rock Creek experience, we wanted to make sure we made it to our destination. We geared up for deep snow and headed up to the lake.

Myrtle Lake is the more popular of the trail’s two major destinations, the other being Hester Lake. Frequented mostly by backpackers and fishermen, the lakes don’t see a great deal of traffic. This is probably because, in addition to the trailhead’s relatively remote location, FR 56 is subject to intermittent-and-frequent-enough-to-frustrate closures at the Taylor River - which adds another ten miles to the hike. This portion of FR 56 is slated to close for repairs this summer. Maybe these will make the trailhead more accessible in years to come.

The Dingford Creek Trail begins steeply, following Dingford Creek. The first mile is for the most part rocky switchbacks that eventually yield to a gentler grade upon entering the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Here the second growth forest, replaced by older stands of fir and cedar, deepens, and begins to feel wilder. At three miles, the trail forks. The right branch leads out to Hester Lake, so continue to the left for Myrtle. Although we’ve not yet tried our hand at the Hester Lake Trail, it is reportedly rough as well as notoriously marshy.

Past the junction, you’ll cross a couple of major streams flowing down from various small lakes tucked into the hills above the creek basin. The grade continues to ease as you approach Myrtle, eventually depositing you on the shores of the shallow lake. On a clear day, Big Snow Mountain looms above, an impressive backdrop to a typical alpine lake. There are a few comfortable camping sites here, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the sprawling lake country above.

If you’re one of those heading on to explore, a faint path continues along the lakeshore and switchbacks up for about a mile to Little Myrtle Lake. From here, there is cross-country access to the Arthurian-inspired Merlin, Le Fay and Nimue Lakes to the west, and to Big Snow Lake to the east. Or, you could just climb a little higher to a pass above Little Myrtle Lake to get some views of Lake Dorothy far below.

The snow made this hike a little more difficult for us than it would be after the melt. However, the trail more than makes up for it – rushing waters, open valleys, deep forests are all here. It’s easy to see why some hikers are so fond of this trail. With all the effort it takes to get to the lake, we recommend this more as an overnight than a day hike. After 18 miles of pot-holed forest road, and nearly 2400ft in elevation gain, there isn’t much energy left to explore all the other nearby hidden vistas and lakes. Save this one for your first backpack of the season.

To get there, take Exit 34 off I-90 and take a left on 468th Ave. Follow the road past the truck stop for about a half-mile until you reach SE Middle Fork Road, also known as Forest Road 56. Continue to follow the twists in the road until the pavement runs out. Continue on FR 56 for 12 miles, crossing the Taylor River. Once across, FR 56 veers to the right while the Taylor River Road continues another quarter mile to the Snoqualmie Lake Trailhead. Veer right and continue for about five miles to the Dingford Creek Trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Rock Creek Trail #1013.1

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:10:13 PST

Our Hiking Time: 6h 20m
Total Ascent: 2800ft
Highest Point: 4100ft
Total Distance: 12.5 miles
Location: N 47° 29.3580, W 121° 26.3120
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Hard

Last year, on our hike out to Goldmyer Hot Springs, we passed by an intriguing side trail signed “Rock Creek.” We made a mental note of the rough-looking spur and with warming temperatures and the re-opening of the Dingford Creek Road we returned to investigate.

During the early 20th century, the Rock Creek Trail served as a link between the Snow Lake mining claims and the bustling timber industry of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Valley. As the mines closed and the timber interests moved on, hikers and backpackers took their place. The Rock Creek Trail was once part of the Cascade Crest Trail, a regional predecessor of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). When PCT trailblazers blasted a more efficient route into the side of a mountain – now known as Kendall Katwalk – the Rock Creek route was largely abandoned. Today, the trail has become a road less traveled, with relatively few visitors every year.

From the Dingford Creek Trailhead, drop down and cross the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River, before joining up with the Middle Fork Trail. The trail follows the river through second growth forests with only a few short bursts of elevation. Cross Wildcat Creek and eventually join up with the old railroad grade which that will carry you almost all the way to Rock Creek. The grade over the creek washed out long ago, forcing a short detour downstream to cross the creek and rejoin the grade on the other side. Here, after three and a half miles, find the signed junction to the Rock Creek Trail 1013.1.

The hike now begins in earnest. The trail is steep, rough, and rocky. It steadily climbs up the creek basin in a long series of tight switchbacks. As you gain elevation, you slowly enter old growth forest, complete with massive firs and hemlocks. Cross mossy talus fields while taking in views of Mt. Garfield’s sprawling granite faces. Hop across numerous streamlets that cut across your path as you continue your uphill battle into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and eventually to the impressive Rock Creek Falls. Watch as waters flow out of Snow Lake and cascade almost 1200ft down to the basin.

Or, so we’re told. Our trek up to the falls was a bit premature, as deep snows forced us to turn back a half-mile from our destination. On the other hand, most hikers report that by the time full summer hits, the trail becomes a little overgrown, and often requires some bushwhacking to get to the falls. Either way, reaching one of the largest waterfalls in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is going to take some effort. As for us, we’re planning on visiting Rock Creek Falls as part of a hike out to Gem Lake sometime in the coming months.

This is not an easy hike, though it is a great alternative approach to Snow Lake that exchanges the crowds for an impressive waterfall. But this route doesn’t get a lot of traffic, and it shows – the trail is rough, narrow, and overgrown. You’ll definitely want to bring the gaiters and some hiking poles on this one. However, if solitude is what you’re after, this trail comes highly recommended.

To get there, take Exit 34 off I-90 and take a left on 468th Ave. Follow the road past the truck stop for about a half-mile until you reach SE Middle Fork Road, also known as Forest Road 56. Continue to follow the twists in the road until the pavement runs out. Continue on FR 56 for 12 miles, crossing the Taylor River. Once across, FR 56 veers to the right while the Taylor River Road continues another quarter mile to the Snoqualmie Lake Trailhead. Veer right and continue for about five miles to the Dingford Creek Trailhead. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Historic Robe Canyon Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:14:27 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h
Total Ascent: 300ft
Highest Point: 1080ft
Total Distance: 3 miles
Location: N 48° 5.7780, W 121° 51.9000
Required Permit: None
Difficulty: Easy

Unexpectedly nice weekday weather tempted us out to the Mountain Loop Highway and back to Robe Canyon Historic Park for a post-work hike along the Stillaguamish River. We’d already explored the west end of the park and the Lime Kiln, so we decided to start from the other end of the park; following the Old Robe Trail through the historic town site of Robe out to the railroad tunnels.

Robe Canyon Historic Park covers nearly 1000 acres along seven miles of the South Fork Stillaguamish River, and includes the historic Robe town site. The town of Robe was established by Truitt K. Robe in 1892 or 1893 as a lumber and shingle manufacturing center along the newly constructed Everett & Monte Cristo Railway. Robe quickly prospered, and by 1899, the town was producing 75,000 shingles a day. As the town expanded, it could no longer support its nearly 200 citizens, forcing leaders to abandon the original town site and move a few miles downstream to its current location. Although the public has been visiting the Robe town site for decades, the first portions of Robe Canyon Historic Park weren’t purchased until 1995. Over the next six years, the park expanded and the Old Robe Trail – first build by Boy Scouts in the late 1960s – continued to provide access to the river and remnants of Washington’s pioneer past.

Perhaps the trickiest piece of this hike is finding the trailhead, which is literally off the side of the Mountain Loop Highway, with parking limited to the highway’s shoulders. Beyond that hurdle, the trail is perfect for a short walk in the woods. The trail begins through young forest before quickly dropping to the railroad grade on the valley floor. Wander past marshes and swamps beneath mossy alders as you follow the rushing sounds of the Stillaguamish to the riverside. Along the way, you’ll note the lingering traces of Robe – crumbling bricks, twisted pieces of metal and abandoned pieces of lumber.

Eventually, after crossing a few ponds and fording a couple of streams, you’ll reach Robe Canyon and the railroad tracks. Or, at least, the cement impression of the tracks that were once there. Standing mere feet above the swiftly flowing river, the ingenuity it took to ram the tracks down the canyon is almost as impressive as the belief that it could withstand the frequent flooding of the wild Stillaguamish. Use caution if you chose to hike into the canyon. The cement can be extremely slick, and portions are loose or washed out.

The trail is currently closed before the first tunnel because of a recent landslide. For safety’s sake, we recommend most folks do not go beyond this point. Experienced scramblers should still use caution when crossing the slide, as it is still very unstable, and slipping into the fast-moving river at this point could be deadly. Beyond, the trail continues through two tunnels before abruptly ending in another landslide.

We recommend this three-mile jaunt as an after-work hike or just a quick visit to nature. For a short hike, this trail manages to cover a variety of landscapes and is steeped in history. While not at all something you need to break out the compass and gaiters for, it is still a little wilder than Mt. Si or Tiger Mountain.

To get there, take I-5 North to Exit 194. Follow Highway 2 for about two miles. Stay in the left lane and merge onto Lake Stevens Highway 204. Follow for two miles to Highway 9. Take the left onto Highway 9 toward Lake Stevens. In just under two miles, reach Highway 92 to Granite Falls. Take a right and follow for about eight miles to Granite Falls. Proceed through the town to the Mountain Loop Highway following it for six miles. Keep an eye out for cars parked on the right side of the road and a large brick sign across from Green Mountain Road. Park on the shoulder. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos

Snoquera Falls Loop Trail #1167

noreply@blogger.com (Jer) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:18:38 PST

Our Hiking Time: 2h 30m
Total Ascent: 900ft
Highest Point: 3400ft
Total Distance: 4 miles
Location: N 47° 2.3820, W 121° 33.1860
Required Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Difficulty: Easy

With the sun making an appearance, this week we decided to head back out to SR 410 to explore Snoquera Falls. This gentle 4-mile loop to a somewhat secluded waterfall with only moderate elevation gains was exactly the speed we were looking for.

Snoquera Falls is situated near a Boy Scouts of America campground now known as Camp Sheppard. But, before Harry J. Sheppard purchased the land from the federal government in 1947, it was a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) basecamp. From this site, the CCC built roads and structures in Mt. Rainier National Park as well as the Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The men serving in the camp dubbed it “Snoquera” a combination of Snoqualmie and the Employment Recovery Act (ERA) that paid their wages. Even before the Great Depression, beginning in the 1890s, the area was a regular stop along the wagon road leading up to Starbo Copper Mine, which pulled metal out of Mt. Rainier for over 50 years.

The trail begins at the Camp Sheppard parking lot, immediately plunging into the forest and weaving through the outskirts of the camp. Ignore the amphitheater and nature trail, and instead push on to the signed trail junction less than a quarter-mile down the path. We recommend taking a right for a counter-clockwise approach to this loop – mostly because you get to the waterfall a little faster this way. Despite being a little rocky and narrow, the trail is well-maintained and free of blow downs. On our trip out, we passed trail crews hard at work repairing damage from a rockslide near the falls.

Travel beneath mossy, second-generation forest and through the occasional talus field as you switchback up the trail. Once you reach the falls, you have a choice: you can continue over the creek to a rough path hugging the cliffside up to the base of the waterfall or you can watch the water tumble hundreds of feet down the rock face from a distance. Up close it’s difficult to get a feeling for the waterfall as a whole, but what you can get near is worth the extra effort. There’s enough room at the top to have a snack, enjoy the crashing water, and look out over a sea of evergreens stretching out into the distance. Keep in mind that Snoquera Falls are snow-driven, and during high summer they will be reduced to a trickle, and will not be as impressive as they are during the spring and fall.

This was a great hike that we would recommend to almost anyone. It’s not often that such an impressive waterfall is so easily accessible – although the short route up to the base of the falls is a bit of a scramble. The short climb up to the base of the falls somehow feels much more remote than it actually is. As an added bonus, you can hike this trail nearly year-round, with the falls putting on a different show depending on the season. A popular destination for sledding in the winter and camping in the summer, you can minimize the company by trying this hike in the spring.

To get there, take I-5 south to Highway 18 Exit 142A. Follow Highway 18 into Auburn and take the SR 164 exit. Head left on SR 164 through Enumclaw to SR 410. Head left onto SR 410 for 32 miles to Camp Sheppard just past the Dalles campground. -Nathan

View large versions of the photos